Huernia Zebrina (LifeSaver Plant) 4 inch

Huernia zebrina is a unique small perennial succulent that grows in a creeping pattern. You might think that a plant that stunning is difficult to grow but it’s not, it is actually low maintenance, as long as it’s in a pot with the right potting soil and excellent drainage, and watered correctly. Read on for our care and growing guide.

Huernia Zebrina Care

Huernia zebrina is a good houseplant even for small spaces, as its spread can be limited by the size of the pot. It can even be grown in a dish garden. Here are the main care requirements:

• Well-draining soil
• Partial shade
• Only water when the soil feels dry

Light

The proper amount of light is very important for Huernia zebrina. In its native range in southern Africa, it’s an understory plant.

An eastern- or western-facing window that provides partial shade is best. Southern exposure with midday sun and extreme heat will stress the plant and make it susceptible to disease.

Depending on the amount of light, the thick, angular stems with soft spikes are deep green in low light and turn red in strong sunlight.

Soil

The right soil is crucial to successfully growing Huernia zebrina. Both the soil and the pot need excellent drainage.

Unglazed pots are best because they allow excess moisture to evaporate.

For the soil, use a special cactus or succulent potting mix, which contains both inorganic elements such as sand and perlite, and organic matter, and is fast-draining.

Water

Like all succulents, Huernia zebrina does not like much moisture so watering the right amount at the right time is crucial.

During the growing season, starting in April or May and throughout the summer, it needs watering when the soil feels dry when you put your finger into the top inch. Water slowly until water runs out of the drainage hole, and empty the saucer so no water remains. Only water again when the soil has dried out again. On hot summer days, this can happen fast so check the soil regularly.

During the winter, the plant goes dormantand needs almost no water, about once a month.

Temperature and Humidity

Huernia zebrina is sensitive to frost but you can move it to your patio or porch during the summer months, provided you can provide a spot where it is protected from the hot midday sun. Be aware that outdoors, the soil will dry out more quickly so adjust the watering accordingly.

Fertilizer

As you start watering the plant more regularly in the spring when the growing season starts, fertilize once a month, either with a special liquid succulent plant food or a complete granular fertilizer, using half the amount specified on the product label.

Do not add any more fertilizer starting in late August as the plant approaches dormancy.