Haworthia (Zebra Plant)

Haworthia is the succulent for people without window real estate: three-inch striped rosettes that tolerate lower light than any cactus, drink a few times a month, and ask nothing else. Pet-safe, pocket-sized, and nearly immortal — the gateway succulent.

Care. Bright indirect light is ideal (it burns in hard afternoon sun through glass — the opposite of most succulents); desks and east windows are perfect. Water when the soil dries fully, every two to three weeks; wrinkled leaves mean a drink is due. Cactus mix, drainage, tiny pot (it likes it tight). Pups multiply at the base — free plants for friends.

Watch for: mushy brown leaves (overwatering — the only real killer), and stretching pale growth (dim light — move closer to the window). Non-toxic to cats and dogs — a safe succulent in a genre famous for toxic ones (see: aloe, jade, euphorbias).