About Haworthia decipiens Poelln.
Haworthia decipiens Poelln. is a variable succulent species that is frequently confused with its western relative Haworthia arachnoidea, which is reflected in its scientific epithet "decipiens" meaning "deceptive", making it hard to identify. Like other related species, it forms rosettes of dense succulent leaves. These leaves dry and contract during drought periods, and are covered in soft bristles. This species can be distinguished from similar relatives by several unique characteristics: shorter, flatter, wider leaves; a lighter leaf color; translucent leaf tips; larger and sparser bristles that grow mostly only on leaf margins; and only a very weak leaf keel. Haworthia decipiens has a range of local forms and varieties. To the west of its distribution range, this species gradually transitions into Haworthia lockwoodii, and to the south-west, south of the Swartberg Mountains, it transitions into Haworthia mucronata. It blooms in spring. This is a widespread species, occurring from near Prince Albert in the west, along the north side of the Swartberg Mountains, as far east as Uniondale and Willowmore in the Eastern Cape. It grows in a wide range of habitats, and is usually found growing in the shelter provided by shading bushes.
