Native to the Cape area of South Africa, this easy to grow succulent plant makes an unusual house plant. Plus the flowers are edible and used to make a stew. It will thrive in full sun or bright indirect light. Water when dry. This unusual plant gets it’s name because of the rough textured leaf that resembles a tongue. Gasteria bicolor var. liliputana proliferates from the base forming dense groups of up to ten or more individuals. broad, tapering, strap-shaped with a rounded or acute top and a smooth, mottled epidermis. The leaves of young plants are distichous (arranged in two opposite ranks) and look quite different to the adult leaves.

• Easy to grow succulent
• Leaf resembles a rough tongue
• Water when dry
• The varieties vary with the season
• Immediate shipping
• Not cold hardy.
• Grows up to 8 inches.
• Slow growing

Ox Tongue Gasteria, scientifically known as Gasteria bicolor, is a unique and striking succulent plant that belongs to the Asphodelaceae family. Native to South Africa, this compact perennial is highly favored by succulent enthusiasts for its eye-catching foliage and low-maintenance requirements.

Ox Tongue Gasteria derives its common name from the long, tongue-shaped leaves that resemble the tongue of an ox. The leaves are thick, fleshy, and typically grow in a rosette pattern. The coloration of the leaves varies from deep green to dark brown, with contrasting white or light green spots or stripes. The leaves often have a rough, textured surface, adding to the plant’s overall appeal. The mature plant can reach a height of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) and spread up to 12 inches (30 cm).

Planting Zone Information:
Ox Tongue Gasteria thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11, which are characterized by mild to warm temperatures throughout the year. It can also be grown as a houseplant in colder regions, provided it receives adequate light and temperature conditions.

Growing Guide for Ox Tongue Gasteria from a 4″ Pot:

Light: Place your Ox Tongue Gasteria in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but avoid placing it in scorching, intense light for prolonged periods.

Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) during the day and around 50°F to 60°F (10°C to 15°C) at night. Protect the plant from frost as it is not cold-tolerant.

Soil: Use a well-draining succulent or cactus mix to ensure proper drainage. You can also create your own by combining regular potting soil with coarse sand or perlite.

Watering: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering, which can cause root rot. Water the plant thoroughly but infrequently, typically once every 2 to 3 weeks, adjusting based on the specific needs of your environment. Reduce watering during the winter months when the plant goes into dormancy.

Humidity: Ox Tongue Gasteria can adapt to average room humidity levels, but it appreciates slightly higher humidity if possible.

Fertilizer: Feed the plant with a balanced, diluted succulent fertilizer during the active growing season (spring and summer) according to the instructions on the label. Avoid fertilizing during the winter dormancy period.

Propagation: Ox Tongue Gasteria can be propagated through offsets or by leaf cuttings. To propagate offsets, wait until they are large enough to separate from the mother plant and then gently remove them and plant them in their own pots. For leaf cuttings, carefully remove a healthy leaf, let it dry for a few days, and then place it in a well-draining soil mix until roots develop.

Pruning: Prune off any dried or withered leaves using clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears to maintain the plant’s appearance.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully cultivate and enjoy the unique beauty of the Ox Tongue Gasteria in your home or garden.