Haworthia retusa ‘White Ghost’ is a striking succulent prized for its compact rosettes of fleshy leaves with beautiful pale white and green variegation. The translucent leaf tips give the plant an almost ghostly appearance, making it an unusual addition to a succulent collection while remaining relatively easy to care for.
Scientific Name
Haworthia retusa ‘White Ghost’
Common Name(s)
White Ghost Haworthia, Window Succulent
Origin
The species Haworthia retusa is native to South Africa, where it grows in dry, rocky environments, often partially sheltered from intense sunlight.
Light
Prefers bright, indirect light with some gentle morning or evening sun. Avoid prolonged strong midday sunlight, which can scorch the pale variegated areas. Too little light may result in stretched, less compact growth.
Water
Allow the soil to dry thoroughly between waterings, then water deeply and allow all excess water to drain away. Water less frequently during winter when growth slows. Avoid allowing water to sit in the centre of the rosette.
Humidity
Average household humidity is ideal. This succulent does not require high humidity and benefits from good airflow.
Soil
Requires a very well-draining soil mix. Use a cactus and succulent compost with additional perlite, pumice or grit to improve drainage.
Food
Feed sparingly during spring and summer with a cactus or succulent fertiliser diluted to half strength. Feeding every 6–8 weeks is sufficient.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 15–25°C. Protect from frost and prolonged cold temperatures.
Pet-safe
Haworthia species are generally considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
Sprouts Top Tips
The pale variegation means ‘White Ghost’ contains less chlorophyll than a standard green Haworthia, so growth can be slower. Give it plenty of bright, indirect light while protecting it from intense afternoon sunshine.
Extras
A slow-growing and compact succulent that is ideal for windowsills, desks and smaller spaces. Mature plants may produce offsets around the base, which can eventually form an attractive cluster.
Did You Know?
The translucent areas at the tips of Haworthia leaves are often called “leaf windows”. In their natural habitat, some Haworthias grow partly buried in the ground, with these windows allowing light to reach the photosynthetic tissue inside the leaves.
