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Plant Profiles / Ox tongue
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Ox tongue
Gasteria spp. and hybrids · Gasteria, cow's tongue
Thick, tongue-shaped leaves with rough, speckled patterns. One of the few succulents happy in lower light.
Bright indirect to low lightLight
Every 2–3 weeksWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright indirect to low light
ShadeFull sun
Avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Water
Every 2–3 weeks
DryWet
Water when the mix is dry.
Humidity
Low to average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
5–32°C (41–90°F)
CoolWarm
Protect from frost.
Growth
Slow
SlowFast
Grows 10–30 cm.
Soil
Cactus and succulent mix
LeanRich
Free-draining mix.
Fertiliser
Twice a year
RarelyOften
Light feed in spring and summer.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
Gasterias come from South Africa, where they grow in the shade of shrubs. They're slow, tough and tolerant, making them ideal for indoor pots.
Best spots
Indoor shelves, desks, bathrooms and shaded balconies.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Gasteria spp. and hybrids |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Origin | South Africa |
| Plant type | Succulent |
| Mature size | 10–30 cm |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Flowers | Stomach-shaped pink bells |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Pups or leaves |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Repot
Divide
Flowering
Water less
RepotDivideFloweringWater less
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Brown patches | Sunburn. |
| Soft base | Overwatering. |
| Leaves bending | Needs a bit more light. |
| Slow growth | Normal. |
Common questions
Can it grow in low light?
Yes, better than most succulents.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
How fast does it grow?
Slowly.
Does it flower?
Yes, on tall arching stems.
