So, you’re planning to get a zebra plant, huh? Well, we understand that there are many types of zebra plants out there.
Zebra plants, also known as zebra cactus, are among the most popular succulents. That’s because they require low maintenance and have a unique striped appearance.
However, not all zebra plant varieties have the same look. On top of that, some of them have specific care requirements.
In this article, we’ll tell you all about the different types of zebra plants and how to identify them. We’ll also tell you how to take care of each one.
That said, let’s dive into the details right away.
Zebra Plant Variations
Let me tell you about the most popular zebra plant types.
1 – Haworthia Fasciata
Haworthia fasciata is one of the most popular variations of zebra plant. It has thick, dark-green leaves similar to most succulents.
What’s unique about this plant is the clusters of white tubercles on its leaves. The clusters give a striped effect, which is similar to the “zebra” pattern.
Haworthia fasciata typically grows up to 8 inches only. So, it can fit anywhere in your house!
It’s worth mentioning that this plant is often confused with H. attenuata.
Here’s how to tell the difference between the two plants: the Fasciata has white bumps on the underside of its leaves, while the attenuata doesn’t.
2 – Haworthia Attenuata
The attenuata, commonly known as Hankey Dwarf Aloe, is a one-of-a-kind zebra plant variation. It’s a slow grower, and it can live up to 50 years.
The long-living plant belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. So, how to identify this zebra plant?
Well, the H. attenuata has brownish-green leaves with a lot of tubercles. It has more tubercles than most zebra plants.
Additionally, the leaves of this zebra variation are longer. One of the best things about this zebra plant is that it produces flowers.
3 – Haworthia Glabrata
Haworthia attenuata v. glabrata comes with bright green leaves. You can spot many prominent dots covering both sides of the leaves.
Generally, this variation is fairly easy to grow, and it’s perfect for beginners. However, it’s worth mentioning that you should plant this one in a deep pot.
Let me tell you why.
Typically, glabrata plants grow deep roots. In addition, they produce new offsets around the base.
Therefore, you should pick a well-draining, deep container for this plant.
4 – Haworthia Big Band
This clump-forming perennial is one of the most unique-looking zebra plants. As the name suggests, it has broad white stripes or bands.
The leaves are pointy and have a dark-green color, which creates an eye-catching contrast with the strips.
What makes it even more beautiful is that it produces small white flowers during summer.
Furthermore, this is one of the easiest plants to grow on this list. It’s perfect for beginners and those who have tight schedules.
5 – Super White Zebra Plant
As you can tell by its name, this one is super white! The super white zebra plant has broad white banding and bumps all over the outer side of its leaves.
It’s the closest plant on this list to the real zebra skin appearance. The gorgeous zebra variation produces white tubular flowers during summer.
Unlike most succulents, the super white zebra thrives in low light. It’s also resilient to many types of diseases and pests.
So, it’s a good houseplant for a beginner. Keep in mind that this plant requires a deep container with proper drainage to stay healthy.
6 – Aphelandra Squarrosa
Are you looking for a plant that grows larger than most zebra plants? This one is for you!
Aphelandra squarrosa is known by many names, including the zebra plant. Generally, squarrosa is a tropical plant native to Brazil.
Typically, this zebra plant can grow up to 18 inches tall. So, it’s not as small as the other plants on our list.
When it comes to appearance, this one has dark green leaves with white veins.
Although Aphelandra squarrosa isn’t a high-maintenance plant, it requires more care and attention than other zebra plants. Generally, it thrives in high humidity and consistent temperature around 60 to 75 ºF.
Sadly, this plant might lose its leaves and become leggy without proper care. It’s also not easy to get this plant to produce flowers.
7 – Haworthia Limifolia Var. Striata
Haworthia limfolia is a stunning succulent plant that forms rosettes of green and brownish-green leaves. The leaves of this plant have white undulated white ridges on both surfaces.
Generally, this zebra variation is tiny. It can grow up to 4.8 inches in diameter and 5 inches in height.
You can use these little plants for all decorative purposes. You can grow them in all kinds of containers.
However, as with all succulents, the container should have proper drainage. In addition, it’s important to not overwater this plant.
8 – Haworthia Royal Albert
Haworthia Royal Albert, or Haworthia fasciata Albert, is a succulent zebra native to South Africa. You can identify this one by its thick, conical leaves.
The leaves of this plant can sometimes turn reddish-black, depending on the amount of light the plant receives.
The leaves have round white lumps all over them, which look similar to a zebra pattern.
What’s more, the plant blooms dense beautiful flowers in early springtime. However, the flowers tend to be tiny and white.
So, it can be hard to spot them.
9 – Haworthia Tegelberg
Haworthia Tegelberg, commonly known as the Fairy Washboard plant, has raised green ridges on its leaves.
The Tegelberg can grow taller than most zebra plants. However, you’ll have to provide it with the optimum conditions.
Generally, this zebra variation is resilient to common pests and diseases. It can also survive with minimal watering.
General Care and Requirements of Zebra Plants
There are many plants that are known as “zebra plants.” So, they don’t all have the same requirements.
However, most of the plants that we refer to as zebras are succulents. That said, let’s check out the general care requirements of zebra plants.
1 – Light
Generally, most succulent zebra plants thrive in indirect light. They can also do well in partial shade.
However, direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant, as it might cause the leaves to scorch. Additionally, full shade isn’t the best for this plant, as it won’t receive all the light it needs.
In addition, it won’t bloom.
2 – Watering
Zebra plants mostly prefer moist soil. However, overwatering is one of the most common problems with zebra plants.
So, you’ll have to be careful! Overwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and might lead to root rot, which can be the end of your beautiful plant.
Generally, most zebra plants require watering every few weeks, depending on the weather and the season. It’s essential to saturate the soil with water slowly and allow the excess water to escape through drainage holes.
Moreover, you should always water these plants under the leaves and not from above.
3 – Soil
As with most succulent plants, zebras grow best in soil that’s neutral or slightly acidic. It’s essential to pick a well-draining, light potting mixture.
In addition, if you want your zebra to bloom, you’ll have to use a fertilizer. You can use fertilizer on your zebra plant every one to two weeks during its growing seasons, which are mostly spring and summer.
4 – Temperature and Humidity
Most zebra plants thrive in moderate temperatures. Generally, the temperature shouldn’t be below 55 ºF.
Humidity is important to all succulents, and zebra plants are no exception. The humidity should be around 60 to 70% to keep your zebra healthy.
If you’re planning to grow more than one zebra plant, we highly recommend investing in a humidifier. It can save you a lot of effort and provide your plants with the perfect humidity they need.
You can also mist your plants with lukewarm water using a spray bottle. However, don’t overdo this, as it can do more harm than good.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 – Is the zebra plant a cactus?
No. Zebra Cactus is a succulent. The name comes from the white zebra-like stripes on the plant.
2 – Can I grow zebra plants indoors?
Yes. We typically grow zebra plants indoors.
3 – Do zebra plants need a lot of water?
Zebra plants prefer consistently moist soil. However, you need to be careful not to overwater your zebra plant, as it can harm it.
4 – How long can zebra plants live?
With proper care, zebra plants can live for more than 10 years. Additionally, the Haworthiopsis attenuata can live up to 50 years.
Final Thoughts
There are many zebra plant types out there. Most of them are perfect for beginners and require low maintenance.
You’ll typically have no problem growing any of them, even as a first plant. However, you need to be careful not to overwater zebra plants.
Generally, a zebra plant doesn’t require frequent watering. In addition, make sure to place it in a location where it receives moderate indirect sunlight.
All in all, you can’t go wrong when picking a zebra plant. They all have unique looks and they’re perfect to grow indoors.
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.