Haworthias are popular and easy-to-grow succulents known for their attractive rosettes and unique leaf patterns.
However, it’s not uncommon for plant enthusiasts to notice their beloved Haworthia turning red hue.
In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this intriguing transformation, discuss whether it’s a cause for concern, and provide tips on maintaining the health and beauty of your Haworthia.
So, let’s dive in and uncover the mystery of the reddening Haworthia!

Why is My Haworthia Turning Red? A Comprehensive Guide
Haworthias are prized for their mesmerizing appearance and low-maintenance nature. However, when their leaves turn red, many plant owners are puzzled and worried.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the factors contributing to this color change and provide solutions to ensure your Haworthia remains healthy and vibrant.

Sun Exposure: Too Much of a Good Thing
One of the primary reasons behind Haworthias turning red is excessive sun exposure. While these succulents enjoy bright, indirect light, they can become stressed when exposed to intense, direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
Solution: To prevent sunburn and redness, place your Haworthia in a location that receives bright but indirect sunlight. If you notice the plant turning red, consider moving it to a shadier spot or providing some protective shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature Stress: Feeling the Heat
Haworthias are native to South Africa and thrive in warm, arid environments. However, they can experience temperature stress when exposed to extreme heat or cold. High temperatures can cause the plant to turn red as a protective response, while low temperatures may result in damage or even death.
Solution: Maintain a consistent temperature range for your Haworthia, ideally between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C). Protect the plant from drafts, sudden temperature changes, and extreme heat or cold by placing it in a stable indoor environment or providing insulation during temperature fluctuations.
Nutrient Deficiency: Starving for Attention
A lack of essential nutrients can also cause your Haworthia to turn red. While these succulents are adapted to thrive in nutrient-poor soil, they still require a balanced supply of nutrients to maintain their health and color.
Solution: Fertilize your Haworthia sparingly, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer) and avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to further stress and damage.
Watering: Striking the Right Balance
Both overwatering and underwatering can lead to stress and cause your Haworthia to turn red. Overwatering can result in root rot, while underwatering may cause the plant to draw upon its stored water reserves, leading to color changes and shriveling.
Solution:
- Ensure your Haworthia is planted in well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes.
- Water the plant thoroughly when the soil is completely dry, allowing excess water to drain away.
- Reduce watering frequency during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Fungal Diseases: The Invisible Enemy
Fungal diseases can cause your Haworthia to turn red as the plant tries to fight off the invading pathogens. These diseases can spread rapidly and lead to severe damage or even death if not addressed promptly.

Solution:
- Inspect your Haworthia regularly for signs of fungal infection, such as discoloration, mold, or unusual growth.
- If you suspect a fungal disease, isolate the affected plant, remove the infected parts, and treat it with a fungicide.
- Maintain proper hygiene and ensure adequate airflow around your plants to prevent the spread of fungal diseases.
Root Rot: A Silent Killer
Root rot is a common issue, often resulting from overwatering or poor drainage. When the roots are constantly wet, they become susceptible to rot, leading to a weakened plant and red coloration.
Solution:
- Ensure your Haworthia is planted in well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes.
- Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry, and avoid letting it sit in standing water.
- If you notice root rot, remove the affected roots, allow the plant to dry, and repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Low Humidity: A Dry Situation
Haworthias can tolerate low humidity levels, but extremely dry conditions may cause stress and redness. Inadequate humidity can also make your plant more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Solution: Monitor the humidity levels around your Haworthia and consider using a humidifier or a pebble tray with water to increase humidity if necessary. However, avoid excessive humidity, which can encourage fungal growth and other issues.
Insect Infestation: Unwanted Guests
Pests like mealybugs, spider mites, and aphids can infest your Haworthia, causing stress and redness. These insects can damage your plant, weaken it, and even transmit diseases.
Solution: Inspect your Haworthia regularly for signs of pests and treat any infestations promptly using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Maintain proper plant hygiene and keep an eye on surrounding plants to prevent the spread of pests.
Fertilizer Burn: Too Much Love
Over-fertilizing your Haworthia can lead to fertilizer burn, causing the plant to turn red and exhibit other signs of stress, such as leaf drop or yellowing.
Solution: Fertilize your Haworthia sparingly, using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply the fertilizer once every two months during the growing season (spring and summer) and avoid over-fertilizing.
Poor Drainage: A Recipe for Disaster
As mentioned earlier, poor drainage can lead to root rot and other issues, causing your Haworthia to turn red. Ensuring proper drainage is crucial for maintaining the health and appearance of your plant.
Solution:
- Plant your Haworthia in a well-draining soil mix, preferably one designed for succulents.
- Use a container with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
- Monitor your watering habits to ensure the plant does not sit in wet soil for extended periods.
Is Redness a Cause for Concern?
While a red Haworthia may initially cause alarm, it’s important to remember that this color change is often a natural stress response.
By addressing the underlying issue, you can help your plant regain its health and return to its original color.
However, if you notice additional symptoms such as leaf drop, rot, or extreme shriveling, you must act promptly to prevent further damage or loss of your Haworthia.
By understanding the factors contributing to your Haworthia turning red and implementing the appropriate solutions, you can ensure your succulent remains healthy, vibrant, and beautiful for years to come.

How To Prevent Haworthia From Turning Red?
To prevent your Haworthia from turning red, you can follow these tips:
- Avoid direct sun exposure by placing the Haworthia in a location with bright but indirect sunlight. This will prevent sunburns and damage to the plant tissues.
- Maintain a consistent temperature range between 65°F and 80°F (18°C and 27°C) to prevent temperature stress.
- Ensure proper watering by allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings and avoiding overwatering.
- Provide adequate humidity without dampening the environment, which can encourage fungal growth.
- Inspect your Haworthia regularly for signs of pests, fungal infections, and diseases, and address any issues promptly.
- Fertilize sparingly with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, and avoid over-fertilizing.
- Plant your Haworthia in well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot and poor drainage.
What does a healthy Haworthia look like?
A healthy Haworthia typically displays rosette-shaped, tightly packed leafy clusters. The leaves can vary in texture and color, ranging from firm, tough, and dark green to softer and even translucent.
Some species have white spots on their leaves and can turn a rich purple-red hue when exposed to full sun. These plants are native to harsh environments and can often be buried in sand, making them easy to grow in well-draining soil mixes.

How do you fix red succulents?
To fix red succulents, you can follow these steps:
- Check the soil quality: Poor soil quality can cause stress in succulents, leading to redness. Use high-quality potting soil or a well-balanced homemade mixture.
- Adjust sun exposure: If your succulents receive too much direct sunlight, move them to a location with bright but indirect sunlight.
- Monitor temperature: Maintain a consistent temperature range and protect your succulents from extreme temperature fluctuations.
- Water appropriately: Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings and avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize carefully: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength, and avoid over-fertilizing.
- Inspect for pests and diseases: Regularly check your succulents for signs of pests or diseases, and treat any issues promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is my Haworthia turning reddish-brown?
Your Haworthia may turn reddish-brown due to stress factors such as excessive sun exposure, temperature fluctuations, overwatering, or underwatering. To address this issue, move the plant to a location with indirect sunlight, maintain a consistent temperature, and ensure proper watering habits. Additionally, check for pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies, as these can also contribute to color changes in Haworthias.
Why is my Haworthia turning pink?
Haworthias can turn pink when exposed to high levels of sunlight, which triggers the production of protective pigments. This color change is a natural stress response and can be resolved by moving the plant to a location with bright but indirect sunlight. Monitor your Haworthia’s sun exposure and adjust its position to prevent further stress and maintain health.
Can Haworthia take full sun?
Haworthias generally prefer bright, indirect sunlight rather than full sun exposure. While they can tolerate some direct sunlight, especially in the morning or late afternoon, prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can cause sunburn, stress, and color changes. To ensure your Haworthia thrives, place it in a location with bright but indirect sunlight or provide some protective shade during the hottest parts of the day.
What does an overwatered Haworthia look like?
An overwatered Haworthia may exhibit yellowing leaves, soft and mushy leaves, or a wilted appearance despite moist soil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to become unstable in the pot and emit a foul smell. To avoid overwatering, allow the soil to dry completely between waterings and ensure the plant is potted in well-draining soil and a container with drainage holes.
Conclusion:
Haworthias turning red is a common concern among plant enthusiasts, but it is often manageable. The red coloration is typically a result of stress factors such as excessive sunlight, temperature fluctuations, improper watering, or other environmental conditions.
By understanding the causes of this color change and implementing appropriate solutions, you can help your Haworthia regain its health and maintain its vibrant appearance.
Regularly monitoring your plant for any signs of stress and adjusting its care accordingly will ensure that your Haworthia thrives and continues to be a beautiful addition to your indoor garden.