Origin of Name
The Haworthia truncata hybrid 'Aoi Gozen' is named with a nod to traditional Japanese culture. "Aoi Gozen" translates to "Lady Aoi," a reference to a noble character in classical Japanese literature. This name is fitting for a plant with such elegant and refined features. The moniker reflects the plant's graceful appearance, with its unique leaf patterning and coloration bringing to mind the beauty and sophistication associated with Japanese aristocracy.

Technical Description of Plant
Haworthia truncata 'Aoi Gozen' is a striking succulent, known for its distinctive and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The plant forms a compact rosette of thick, fleshy leaves that are truncated, creating a flat, window-like surface at their tops. These leaves typically exhibit a pale green to bluish hue, accented with subtle variegations or markings that add to its allure. The plant is relatively small, generally growing to about 3-4 inches in height and width. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers on thin stalks, though the primary charm of this hybrid lies in its unique foliage.

Origin and Habitat
Haworthia truncata 'Aoi Gozen' is a hybrid cultivar derived from Haworthia truncata, a species native to South Africa. The natural habitat of Haworthia truncata is the arid regions of the Western Cape, where it grows in rocky crevices and shallow soils. This environment has shaped the species' adaptations for water storage and drought tolerance. The 'Aoi Gozen' hybrid was specifically cultivated to enhance and combine desired traits from various Haworthia species or varieties, resulting in its distinctive coloration and leaf texture.

Conservation Status
As a hybrid, Haworthia truncata 'Aoi Gozen' does not have a specific conservation status in the wild. The parent species, Haworthia truncata, is not listed as endangered or threatened. However, the species, like many succulents, faces threats from habitat loss and the illegal collection of wild specimens for the horticultural trade, underscoring the importance of responsible cultivation and trade practices.

Care Instructions
Caring for Haworthia truncata 'Aoi Gozen' involves several key considerations:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause leaf discoloration, while too little light can lead to etiolation.
• Watering: Employ the 'soak and dry' method, watering thoroughly once the soil is completely dry, and then allowing it to dry out before watering again.
• Soil: Requires well-draining soil, ideally a cactus or succulent mix.
• Temperature: Best kept in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C), with protection from frost and extreme cold.
• Feeding: Fertilize lightly during the growing season with a diluted, balanced fertilizer.
• Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or as needed to refresh the soil and inspect root health.

Haworthia truncata 'Aoi Gozen' is an exquisite and relatively easy-to-care-for plant, ideal for those who appreciate the subtle beauty of succulents. Its elegant appearance and compact size make it a perfect addition to indoor succulent collections or as a standout in a rock garden.