Cow Tongue

Basic Information

Common Name: Cow Tongue
Scientific Name: Gasteria carinata var. verrucosa
Native Habitat: Native to the Western Cape province of South Africa, particularly the drier inland regions often found growing in rocky terrain or among shrubs.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The genus *Gasteria* belongs to the Asphodelaceae family, closely related to the well-known *Aloe* genus, with which it can even hybridize. *Gasteria* species are exclusively native to South Africa, primarily concentrated in the Cape provinces, thriving in diverse habitats ranging from coastal thickets to inland arid areas and mountainous regions. The genus name itself is derived from the Latin word ‘gaster’, meaning stomach, referring to the stomach-like shape of the base of the flowers.

The history of *Gasteria* cultivation dates back centuries. Like many South African succulents, specimens were collected by early European botanists and explorers and sent back to botanical gardens in Europe for study and display. The distinct appearance of *Gasteria* species, with their often thick, stiff, sometimes patterned, and variably arranged leaves, quickly made them popular subjects in conservatories and later as houseplants.

*Gasteria carinata*, the base species for this variety, was described relatively early in the history of South African botanical exploration. The variety *verrucosa* is particularly noted for the prominent, raised, white tubercles or ‘warts’ that cover its dark green leaves, giving it a unique textured appearance. The term ‘verrucosa’ directly translates from Latin to ‘warty’, accurately describing this characteristic feature. While specific records detailing the exact moment *Gasteria carinata var. verrucosa* was first described as a distinct variety might require deep dives into historical botanical literature, the classification reflects botanical observations of consistent morphological differences (the tubercles) within populations of *Gasteria carinata*.

Over time, *Gasteria* species, including the popular ‘Cow Tongue’ variety, became favored among succulent enthusiasts and houseplant growers due to their relative ease of care, tolerance for indoor conditions, slow growth habit (meaning they don’t quickly outgrow their space), and attractive forms. They are often grown as specimen plants, in succulent arrangements, or as part of a collection of South African native plants. Their ability to produce offsets or ‘pups’ also made them easy to propagate and share, contributing to their widespread availability in cultivation today. While not a fleeting trend, the steady popularity of *Gasteria* species, particularly robust and distinctive varieties like ‘Cow Tongue’, has ensured their continued presence in nurseries and plant shops globally, cultivated by countless amateur and professional growers who appreciate their unique beauty and resilience. Their adaptability has allowed them to transition successfully from their specific native niches in South Africa to diverse environments as beloved cultivated plants.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

*Gasteria carinata var. verrucosa* exhibits several key adaptations typical of succulents and beneficial for survival in arid or semi-arid native environments, and also for thriving as a houseplant. The most obvious adaptation is the thick, fleshy leaves which serve as efficient water storage organs, allowing the plant to survive long periods of drought. The leaves are typically arranged in a distichous (two-ranked) pattern in young plants, becoming more loosely rosette-like or stacked as they mature. This arrangement can help funnel water towards the base of the plant. The waxy cuticle on the leaf surface and the sunken stomata (pores for gas exchange) also help reduce water loss through transpiration. The prominent white tubercles (‘warts’) characteristic of the ‘verrucosa’ variety are deposits of calcium oxalate or other compounds. While their primary function isn’t fully understood, they may help reflect sunlight, further reducing leaf temperature and water loss, or possibly deter herbivores due to their texture or chemical composition. The plant’s extensive, fibrous root system is adapted to quickly absorb any available moisture when it rains. Their slow growth rate also means they require fewer resources overall.

Propagation Methods

The most common and easiest method for propagating *Gasteria carinata var. verrucosa* is by separating offsets, also known as ‘pups’. These are small clones that the mother plant produces around its base. Once an offset is a reasonable size (at least an inch or two tall) and ideally has developed some roots of its own, it can be gently twisted or cut away from the parent plant using a clean, sharp knife. The offset should then be allowed to callous over for a day or two in a dry, shaded location before being planted in its own pot with well-draining succulent mix. Water sparingly until new growth indicates rooting has occurred. Leaf cuttings are also possible but generally less reliable and slower than using offsets. A healthy leaf can be carefully detached from the plant, allowed to callous for several days, and then laid on top of or slightly inserted into moist succulent soil. It may eventually root and produce a new plantlet from the base of the leaf, but this process can take many months.

Toxicology

*Gasteria carinata var. verrucosa*, like other *Gasteria* species, is generally considered to have low toxicity to humans and common household pets like cats and dogs. However, ingestion is not recommended and can cause mild adverse reactions. The plant contains sap and compounds that, if consumed, may lead to minor symptoms such as oral irritation (redness, swelling, or itching of the mouth and lips), nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The severity of the reaction typically depends on the amount ingested. It is not considered life-threatening, but it’s best to keep the plant out of reach of curious pets and small children to avoid any discomfort. If ingestion occurs and symptoms are observed, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian or a poison control center, although severe reactions are rare.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs (often found in leaf axils or under leaves, appearing as white, cottony masses)
• Spider Mites (tiny mites causing stippling on leaves, fine webbing may be present)
• Scale Insects (small, hard-shelled insects that attach to stems and leaves, feeding on sap)

Diseases:

• Root Rot (caused by overwatering and poor drainage, leading to mushy base and ultimately plant death)
• Fungal Leaf Spots (can occur in humid conditions or if leaves stay wet, appearing as discolored spots)

Other:

• Etiolation / Stretching: Caused by insufficient light, resulting in elongated stems and widely spaced leaves as the plant stretches towards a light source.
• Leaf Scorch: Caused by sudden exposure to direct, intense sunlight, resulting in brown or discolored patches on the leaves.
• Mushy/Soft Leaves: Primarily caused by overwatering, indicating the plant is waterlogged and potentially developing root rot.
• Shriveled/Wrinkled Leaves: Caused by underwatering, indicating the plant is dehydrated and using up its stored water reserves.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

*Gasteria carinata var. verrucosa* is not considered a rare plant in cultivation. While the exact native population size in South Africa might be subject to conservation status assessments, this specific variety is widely available in the horticultural trade. Its relative ease of propagation, particularly through the separation of abundant offsets, means that nurseries and home growers can produce new plants readily. Compared to truly rare succulents (like certain variegated forms, unique hybrids, or species with highly restricted native habitats and difficult propagation), ‘Cow Tongue’ *Gasteria* is quite common. Larger, more mature specimens or clumps with multiple pups are less common than small starter plants, but they are not inherently rare, just require time to grow.

Value:

The market value of *Gasteria carinata var. verrucosa* is generally quite accessible, making it an affordable option for succulent enthusiasts and beginners. Several factors influence its value:

• Size and Maturity: Larger, more mature plants with a significant number of leaves or a substantial clump of offsets will command a higher price than small, young starter plants.
• Condition: Healthy, well-formed plants free from pests, diseases, or physical damage (like leaf scars or broken tips) are more valuable.
• Number of Offsets: Plants with multiple healthy ‘pups’ are often seen as more desirable as they offer immediate propagation potential.
• Form and Appearance: While ‘verrucosa’ is a specific variety, particularly attractive specimens with pronounced tubercles and good leaf shape may be slightly more valued. Unusual mutations or accidental variegation would significantly increase value, but this is not typical for this variety.

Overall, it’s a relatively low-cost succulent compared to many collector plants, with value primarily tied to the plant’s size and overall health rather than inherent rarity.