Tulista pumila 'Donuts'

Family: Asphodelaceae
Synonym: Formerly Haworthia pumila or Haworthia attenuata in some classifications

Tulista pumila 'Donuts' is a striking succulent cultivar distinguished by its unique, rounded leaf tubercles that resemble small doughnuts, hence the nickname. This cultivar is a variation of the species Tulista pumila, native to South Africa, and is prized for its sculptural form and textured foliage.

Origin and Habitat

Tulista pumila is native to the southern coastal regions of South Africa, where it grows naturally on rocky slopes and well-drained soils. It thrives in areas with a Mediterranean climate featuring wet winters and dry summers. The species is adapted to semi-shade under sparse vegetation or rocks.

Plant Description

'Tulista pumila Donuts' forms compact rosettes of thick, triangular leaves that are densely covered with distinctive raised, circular tubercles resembling donuts. These tubercles are larger and more rounded than those on typical Tulista pumila, giving the plant a very textured and ornamental appearance. Leaves are usually dark green with a slight bluish or greyish tint.

The plant produces slender flower spikes in spring or early summer, bearing small, tubular, pale pink to white flowers. Flowering is less frequent and less showy compared to some other succulents but adds seasonal interest.

Care Instructions

Light
Prefers bright indirect light to partial sun. It tolerates some direct sunlight but should be protected from the harshest midday sun to prevent leaf scorching.

Watering
Water thoroughly but only when the soil is completely dry. During the active growing season (spring to autumn), water moderately and reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.

Soil
Needs well-draining soil. A mix of cactus potting soil combined with pumice or perlite works well:

• 2 parts succulent or cactus soil

• 1 part pumice or coarse sand

Temperature
Best grown between 18°C and 27°C. It tolerates cooler temperatures down to about 5°C, but must be kept frost-free.

Additional Information

This cultivar offsets slowly, forming small clumps over time. It is an excellent choice for container growing, rock gardens, and succulent collections due to its unique texture and compact size. Propagation is usually by division of offsets or by seed. The plant is generally pest-free but should be monitored for mealybugs.