Gasteria is a genus of relatively rare, ​aloe-like succulents. It sometimes goes by the colloquial name "ox tongue," after the long, rough texture of the leaves. The plant is named for the sac-like shape of its flowers which resemble a stomach.
The genus is native to South Africa, where it grows in lightly shaded conditions with excellent drainage. As a result, the plant tolerates lower light conditions than most other well-known succulents, making them very good houseplants. Depending on the species, gasteria leaves are often marked with interesting patterns and coloration. The G. verrucosa species also has wart-like protrusions on its leaves.
For most plants and succulents, the best type of water to use is the rainwater or distilled water. tap water often contain lots of mineral like magnesium or calcium that can build up in the soil or appear on the leaves as white dot. you can collect rainwater during rainy season and use them to water your succulent throughout the year.
Needs a lot of sunlight, but it has to be protected from the strongest rays of the sun. In a south-facing window, blinds should be shading it form direct light. An east facing window, where the sun disappears after about 10 AM, is a good choice as is a west facing window where the plant will receive afternoon sun.
Mix the recommended amount of liquid fertilizer and water in a watering can. Then simply pour the mix into the soil as if you're watering the plant.
Warmer summers but cool in the winter (down to 50 F) are best for this plant. During warmer weather, gasteria leaves might turn a lighter, brighter color or the plant might flower with small, colorful sac-shaped flowers.
Increase pot size by 2.5-5 cm (1 to 2 inches) in diameter for plants that are growing in pots 25.4 cm (10 inches) in diameter or less. For larger plants, those growing in pots greater than 10 inches in diameter, increase the pot size by 5 or 7.62 cm (2 or 3 inches) in diameter.
