The Intriguing Alien Eggs: Haworthia Cooperi

Add a touch of out-of-this-world to your plant collection with the easy-to-grow Haworthia Cooperi (var. truncata)

For plant enthusiasts seeking an otherworldly addition to their collection, look no further than the Haworthia cooperi var. truncata, nicknamed the “Alien Eggs” succulent. This little gem hails from the sunny shores of South Africa, captivating hearts with its unique appearance and easy-going nature.

The plant itself grows to be only few inches tall, forming little clusters of chubby, translucent green leaves. Looking at it is sort of like looking at clusters of tiny, shiny watermelons, their bubble-like bodies adorned with intricate patterns and veins.

The leaves, often ranging from blue-green to coppery red, act like tiny windows, allowing sunlight to reach the plant’s core, even in dimly lit spaces. It’s a remarkable adaptation that makes Alien Eggs a dream for plant owners with a less-than-green thumb, since it thrives on neglect rather than constant coddling.

Unlike many of its succulent cousins, the Alien Eggs plant prefers indirect sunlight which mimics the dappled light it receives under taller plants in its natural habitat. Too much sun, and the leaves will turn yellow and burn. Water it deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. As with nearly all succulents, underwatering is far better than overwatering. A sandy, well-draining soil mix is key, ensuring excess water doesn’t linger around the roots.

The plant is a slow grower. The one in the photo above is five years old and only six inches across. While its slow growth might leave you waiting patiently for new “eggs” to sprout, the eye-candy form of the mature plant is worth it.

Alien Egg Propagation

You can propagate the offsets by picking a small cluster of “eggs” and setting them aside so the picked ends dry and callous over. Then, place them on (not in) a well-draining soil mix and mist every so often until you see the plant start to form root buds.

Once it has rooted, place it in soil, water well, and place it somewhere it receives filtered sunlight. Only water when the soil is completely dry. You’ll know the plant is established when it starts budding new “eggs” from the sides.

It’s an Air Filter

Oh, and did I mention the air-purifying qualities? Like many other houseplants, haworthia cooperi filters volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from the air and traps them in the soil, so it not only adds visual interest to your plant collection but also helps improve indoor air quality (a true breath of fresh air).

Beyond its captivating looks and easy care, the Alien Eggs has a certain mystique. Its ability to thrive in less-than-ideal conditions make it a symbol of quiet strength and adaptability for some. So, if you’re looking for a unique, low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of the oddly attractive to your plant shelf, look no further than the Haworthia cooperi var. truncata. This little alien might just become your new best friend in the plant world.

Haworthia cooperi

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