About
Gasteria, the ox tongues, are stemless or short-stemmed, clump-forming succulents with fleshy, strap-shaped or tongue-shaped, often distinctively spotted or banded leaves arranged in two neat ranks or a spiral rosette. Arching flower stems carry pendant, tubular, pink or orange flowers in spring and early summer. Tolerant of shade and neglect, they are among the most rewarding succulents for indoor growing.
About the genus
Gasteria, the ox tongues, are stemless, succulent perennials forming clumps of rosettes of fleshy leaves � often two-ranked and typically spotted or banded � and producing racemes of pendulous, tubular flowers. Tolerant of shade, they are easy and rewarding succulents for indoor growing.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesGravel garden, Houseplants
Care notes
CultivationIn frost-free areas, grow outdoors in sharply drained, loamy soil, in full sun or light shade. In colder areas, grow under glass in a free-draining cactus potting mix in bright, filtered light. Water moderately during growth and keep dry when dormant. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for more advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or by leaf cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free