Ox-tongue

Ox-tongue Care

Gasteria batesiana

What is the plant

When it comes to approachable houseplants friendly for both beginners and experts alike, succulents must come to mind first! These simple-to-maintain yet hardy masters of survival require little watering and attention to thrive. Our friend, the Ox-Tongue, is no exception.

Ox-Tongue (Gasteria Batesiana) is a type of succulent often found in South Africa. Identifying it is simple as this succulent has distinct rough and pointed leaves.

Due to the shape of its leaves, the plant is also commonly referred to as Cows Tongue or Lawyers Tongue. The color of the leaves is dark green and can often include red and pink toward the tips of the leaves.

These slow-growing succulents are perfect for growing indoors and reach a height of 6-20in (15-50cm). It is best to plant it in a well-lit room out of direct sunlight when growing indoors.

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Lighting

Full Sun

Temperature

17°C - 20°C

Difficulty

Medium

How to Care for the Plant

Water
It is recommended to water Ox-Tongue when the soil is dry to avoid rotting its roots. Twice a month during warmer months and once a month during the cooler seasons is ideal.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for the Ox-Tongue. Leaves may simply be removed as they brown or bruise if desired.
Fertilizer
While this plant does not require fertilizer, one can add a slow-release succulent fertilizer in the spring months to assist your plant’s growth in the coming summer months.

Disease diagnosis

Check your plant’s health

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Sunlight
Unlike many other succulents, it is quite tolerant of shade. When being grown, this plant benefits from a full day of being in a well-lit space out of direct sunlight.
Soil
Ox-Tongue, much like other succulents, benefits greatly from well-draining soil. A gritty soil containing sand or perlite to promote proper drainage is preferred.
Propagation
To propagate Ox-Tongue, one can trim the offset off the mother plant and replant them, and you can also replant trimmings from the leaves. The final method of propagation is directly from seed.

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Temperature
The ideal temperature for Ox-Tongue is between 62-77℉ (17-25℃). It can handle growing in higher temperatures, but it may halt growth.
Container
A pot measuring around 7” (18cm) should suffice.
Fun fact
While similar in appearance and despite being relatives, Ox-Tongue and Aloe Vera actually belong to a separate genus. It was once believed they were a part of the same genus.