Plant · GBIF taxon 2779810
Haworthia cymbiformis
Haworthia cymbiformisAlso known as Cathedral Window Haworthia, Boat-leaved Haworthia, Cymbiform Haworthia
Cathedral window haworthias form low-growing, fleshy rosettes adapted to the shaded rock crevices and cliff faces of South Africa. Their boat-shaped leaves feature translucent window panels near the tips, allowing sunlight to penetrate deep into internal photosynthetic tissues while remaining buried in soil or rock. In spring and summer, slender stalks rise above the foliage to bear delicate, tubular white flowers with faint green or pink veins.
SucculentSouth AfricanDrought Tolerant
1 / 3—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Autotrophic (Photosynthetic)
Predators
- Mealybugs
- Scale insects
- Rodents
ThreatsOver-collection for cultivation, habitat degradation
HabitatsShaded rocky cliffs, gravel slopes, bushveld thickets
Life span10–20 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- OrderAsparagales
- FamilyAsphodelaceae
- GenusHaworthia
- SpeciesHaworthia cymbiformis
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Light Levels: Provide bright, indirect light to maintain transparent leaf windows without sun-burning.
- Substrate Choice: Plant in a lean, fast-draining mineral mix to mimic native cliff soil.
- Watering Routine: Allow soil to dry completely between soakings to protect sensitive roots from rot.
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