The rounded clusters grow on south-facing, shady cliffs. The translucent nature allows for deep light penetration in this shady environment. The leaves of the rosettes become incurved under dry conditions;. This is an adaptation to the semi-arid environment and also helps with adjustment to the available light. The leaves are usually green but become purplish during dry periods, as the plants aestivate, blocking out excessive light and reducing photosynthesis. Plants are long-lived, with soft leaves that wither from the base. The very fleshy leaves are soft, becoming turgid after rain, but channelled during dry periods, an adaptation to the dry cliff habitat.

The soft texture of the leaves and the entire margin suggest a reduction in armament in response to the undisturbed cliff habitat, in contrast to the thorny but heavily grazed surrounding Nama Karoo vegetation.

The small, white, 2-lipped flowers are presented ascending spreading, to attract the flying insect that pollinates them. The fruits ripen in summer and the  seeds are dispersed by wind. The small, angular seeds are ideal for establishment in crevices.

Haworthia marumiana var. batesiana suckers freely from the base, forming dense, rounded clusters. Continual sprouting from the base represents an efficient vegetative backup dispersal strategy for this harsh cliff-face environment. Detached clusters or heads will also root if they fall into a crevice.