The Haworthia pumila or Tulista pumila is a South African succulent also referred to as the Pearl Plant. This plant features rosettes of thick, fleshy, triangular leaves dotted with raised tubercles. The white tubercles contrast deeply against the leaves' olive-green to deep greenish-brown color. In the summer, it blooms with tall spikes of green to brownish-white flowers that have a waxy texture.
Big Fataloe has moderate disease resistance and is more sensitive to humidity. It becomes vulnerable to illness when humidity is high and is liable to root rot during dormancy. Regarding care, Big Fataloe tolerates drought but requires increased watering in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or halted entirely while it is dormant. Big Fataloe is best for growers with some experience, though it can be challenging to maintain, especially during dormancy. It is particularly well suited to people who can dedicate time to its care in the winter months.
How to keep Tulista Pumila.
Light
Native to dry areas, Big Fataloe performs best in full sun; its native habitat is marked by intense sunlight and little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, offering some flexibility in its growth.
Water
Tulista pumila thrives in dry conditions and is highly tolerant of drought, needing water only once every three weeks. It is commonly grown indoors, where a controlled environment helps prevent overwatering. To avoid root rot and replicate its natural habitat, it's crucial to use well-draining soil.
Temperature
Although Big Fataloe can tolerate some heat, it mainly flourishes and grows in cooler seasons and goes dormant in summer. In hot summer temperatures, provide shade to prevent scorching from strong sunlight. Watering should be reduced or stopped during the hottest season to avoid root rot. Big Fataloe shows vigorous growth in winter and spring. If temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Big Fataloe, light applications of fertilizer once or twice a year during the growing season are enough. Avoid fertilizing in winter or in summer, when it is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before you fertilize. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes blooms.
Pruning
As with most succulents, the Pearl Plant does not require extensive pruning to stimulate healthy growth. You can simply trim off any dead or damaged leaves as you see them, keeping the plant neat. When it starts to outgrow its pot, transfer the Pearl Plant to a new, slightly larger but shallow pot with fresh soil. Repotting these plants is best done during the spring or early summer.
Pot & Repot
When repotting Big Fataloe, choose a pot just a bit bigger than the current one that has good drainage. Fill it with a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus mix. Gently lift the plant from its old container, brush off excess soil, and set it in the new pot at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering so any damaged roots can heal. Repot during spring or fall and place the plant in a brightly lit spot.
Toxicity
Tulista pumila, also known as the Pearl Plant, is generally considered non-toxic to people and pets. This succulent can coexist happily as a houseplant with children and pets.
Further reading →
The toxicity and danger assessments provided are for reference only. We do not assure their accuracy, so it's crucial not to depend on them. Seek professional advice when necessary for accurate guidance.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Tulista
- Family
- Asphodelaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 30 cm
- Mature Spread
- 10 cm
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Forest Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White, Pink
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
- Native Area
- South Africa
