ZEBRA PLANT

Haworthiopsis attenuata or Zebra Plant is indigenous to the Eastern Cape and comes from the same sub-family as the Aloe. The plants are decorative and eye-catching in appearance, with pointy leaves, zebra-like white stripes and a ridged texture.

They can be grown both indoors and outdoors and have a high tolerance for different light conditions. Outdoors, they prefer morning sun and need to be acclimatised to full sun areas. Indoors, they can handle low light but need to be moved to bright light locations every few weeks to keep them healthy.

The plants are non-toxic and can tolerate mild frost for short periods. Locals also use them to ward off evil and protect homes. They produce aloe, which can be applied to minor cuts and skin irritations. As a succulent, Zebra plants will liven up any container or rock garden, reaching a height of 15cm, and can be paired with other low growing plants in well-draining soil. They do not like wet feet and once the soil has dried out completely, they should be fertilised once a month during spring and summer. The plants are generally disease-hardy but are susceptible to the usual pests such as mealy bugs and spider mites.

Zebra plants will produce pups and offsets and new arrivals should be separated from the mother plant by removing them and transplanting them into moist, prepared soil. Wait until new growth appears before watering again.

The plant is used in a variety of cosmetics, beauty products, shampoos, lotions and homeopathic remedies.

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