Hi again, Chris. David Martin, the creator of the Haworthia.com website, has been my greatest source of what I consider credible information when it comes to the identity of Haworthias. I still think your plant is more likely attenuata, but you'll need to take a look at it a little closer than the photo shows. Let me quote the page I've linked below:

"This image clearly shows some of the defining differences between Haworthia fasciata and Haworthia attenuata. First the flat part of the leaf facing the center of the pant is smooth and clear. Secondary, the leaves are shorter, fatter, and straighter. Although not apparent here, this plant will develop into short columns, where an attenuata will not."

HTH... Denise in Omaha

Here is a link that might be useful: Haworthia.com - fasciata page

Looks like H. attenuata to me, a very common plant.

Ok, thanks! :) I think it probably is H.attenuata.

Thanks,
Chris

I think you've got it in a good pot Chris. It'll grow bigger at first, then it will begin putting out offsets. Eventually, they'll form a large clump, which is very attractive.
Amy

Hi Chris,
Your top layer of sand would be better removed and replaced with a fine grit.
I normally put about 1-1.5cm of grit around each pot as a topdressing.
This serves a few purposes as follows.
1)Supports the plant when the grit is placed at the base of plant.
2)Keeps the base of the plant away from the damp growing compost as the grit dries out quicker than the compost and does not hold the water.
3)In hot weather it helps to hold the water in the compost that bit longer which allows the plant to draw water up through its roots before the compost dries out.
4)It helps to stop algae and weeds from taking up residence in the pot
5)It also makes the plant look more attractive.
If it was Abbeybrook nursery you were at Brian Fearn would surely advise you on what local grit/gravel is available.
Best of luck.
Niel

Thanks Amy and Neil.

Neil, in my other thread devoted just to the topic of the Top Substrate (link below), I decided that I'll leave the substrate on till I next have to water it. Then, if it shows signs of growing algae, retaining moisture or preventing aeration of the soil, I'll remove it imediately and replace it with gravel. It's only a very thin (>5mm) layer.

Thanks,
Chris

Here is a link that might be useful: Top Susbstrate Thread