Haworthia emelyae (V. Poelln.) v. comptoniana (G.G. Sm.)
(Haworthia comptoniana - G.G. Sm.)
Liliaceae

Description:  The broad, smooth, retused leaves (4-5cm long and 2cm wide at the base) are reticulate with white-flecked "veins".  These leaves form a stemless rosette that is 5-9cm in diameter, up to 120mm in cultivation.  The reticulation and relative length of the leaves are quite variable.  The leaf-end area is slightly pellucid and reticulated.  The difference between H. emelyae (it's closest relative) and this variety is the smoothness and size of the plants, they are generally bigger and smoother.

Flower: White flowers with greenish veins are borne on a 20 cm tall inflorescence.

Propagation:  Seeds and Offsets.  Sets seeds readily after hand-pollination.

Cultivation:  An easy species to cultivate, requires light shade to bright light, regular watering & feedings, light frost protection required.  Minimum of 5ºC for safe growing.

Distribution:  Found in quartz patches, often under stones, in the Willowmore District.  Considered to be very rare in the field.  H. emelyae v. comptoniana grows in close association of H. Bayeri.

Point of Interest:  Named in honour of Prof. R.H. Compton.

Photographer: Etwin Aslander