Contents
Description
Gasteria Carinata, commonly known as the “Ox Tongue”, is a small, slow-growing succulent plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Asphodelaceae, which includes other popular succulent plants such as Aloe and Haworthia. This plant is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Gasteria |
Appearance
Gasteria Carinata has thick, succulent leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The leaves are dark green and are covered in white spots or lines, giving them a unique appearance. The plant can grow up to 12 inches tall and 8 inches wide. It produces small, tubular flowers that are pink or red in color and bloom in the spring and summer.
Care Guide
Gasteria Carinata is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is specifically formulated for succulent plants.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Gasteria Carinata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gasteria Carinata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by them. Here are some common pests and diseases to look out for:
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can infest the leaves and stem of the plant. They secrete a sticky substance that can attract other pests.
- Scale insects: These insects look like small, brown bumps on the leaves and stem of the plant. They can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause the roots of the plant to rot, which can lead to wilting and death.
Habitat
Gasteria Carinata is native to the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. It grows in rocky, mountainous areas and can tolerate both shade and full sun. It is often found growing in coastal areas and can withstand salt spray.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Gasteria Carinata?
A: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gasteria Carinata?
A: Gasteria Carinata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: Can Gasteria Carinata tolerate direct sunlight?
A: Avoid direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves. Place the plant in bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: What should I do if my Gasteria Carinata is infested with mealybugs?
A: Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove mealybugs from the plant. You may need to repeat this process several times to completely get rid of the infestation.
Related Plants
- Gasteria Acinacifolia
- Gasteria Batesiana
- Gasteria Bicolor
- Gasteria Carinata Variegata
- Gasteria Glomerata
References
- https://worldofsucculents.com/gasteria-carinata-ox-tongue/
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/gasteria/gasteria-plants.htm
- https://www.succulentsandsunshine.com/gasteria-care-guide/
