Ox Tongue

Basic Information

Common Name: Ox Tongue
Scientific Name: Gasteria bicolor
Native Habitat: Eastern Cape Province, South Africa

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The genus *Gasteria*, to which *Gasteria bicolor* belongs, was first formally described by the botanist Adrian Hardy Haworth in 1809. Haworth, an English entomologist, botanist, and carcinologist, made significant contributions to the study of succulent plants, particularly those from southern Africa. His work on genera like *Aloe*, *Haworthia*, and *Gasteria* laid much of the groundwork for later taxonomic studies. The name “Gasteria” itself is derived from the Latin word “gaster,” meaning stomach, a nod to the often swollen or stomach-like shape of the plant’s flowers.

*Gasteria bicolor* is one of the more widespread and variable species within the genus, found naturally in the eastern Cape Province of South Africa. Its distribution spans a variety of terrains, from coastal thickets to inland rocky outcrops, typically growing in the shelter of shrubs or rocks which provide some protection from intense sun and grazing animals. This natural adaptability to differing microclimates within its range has contributed to the species’ variability, leading to several recognized subspecies and forms over time.

While Haworth described the genus, the specific epithet “bicolor” was assigned later, highlighting the two-colored nature of the flower’s perianth, which typically features a green base swelling into an orange or pink belly with green striping. This characteristic, though subtle compared to the striking foliage, is a key botanical feature.

Unlike some plant groups that were popularized by specific collectors or nurseries in the 19th or early 20th centuries, *Gasteria bicolor* gained popularity more gradually as part of the wider fascination with South African succulents. Its relatively easy cultivation, attractive foliage, and tolerance for indoor conditions made it a staple among succulent enthusiasts and collectors over the decades. It wasn’t cultivated on a mass scale early on like some agricultural crops, but rather spread through horticultural networks due to its desirability as an ornamental plant. Its hardiness and ability to tolerate lower light conditions than many other succulents have also contributed to its enduring presence in cultivation worldwide, often found in botanical gardens, private collections, and increasingly, as a popular houseplant. Its resilience has made it a successful species both in its native rugged landscape and in the controlled environment of a pot on a windowsill.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

*Gasteria bicolor* exhibits several key adaptations that allow it to thrive in the semi-arid conditions of South Africa and make it a resilient houseplant. Its thick, fleshy leaves are the primary adaptation for water storage, enabling the plant to survive long periods of drought. The leaves often grow in a distichous (two-ranked) arrangement when young, becoming rosette-like with age, a structure that can help funnel water towards the roots. The often rough, textured, or speckled surface of the leaves can help reduce water loss through transpiration and may also deter herbivores. The roots are typically thick and somewhat succulent, providing additional water storage and anchoring the plant firmly in rocky or sandy substrates. Its ability to grow in the shade of other plants in its native habitat is an adaptation to avoid the most intense sun, reflected in its tolerance for lower light indoors compared to many other succulents.

Propagation Methods

*Gasteria bicolor* is relatively easy to propagate using several methods. The most common and reliable method is by **offsets** (pups). These small plantlets readily form at the base of the parent plant. They can be carefully separated using a clean, sharp knife or simply gently pulled away once they have developed their own root system. Allow the cut or broken surface to callus (dry and seal) for a day or two before planting in well-draining succulent mix. **Leaf cuttings** are another viable method, though often slower. A healthy, whole leaf should be gently twisted or cut from the stem, ensuring the base of the leaf is intact. The leaf should be allowed to callus for several days to a week before being laid flat on or inserted shallowly into moist succulent soil. Roots and new plantlets will eventually form at the base of the leaf. Propagation by **seed** is possible but is slower and less common for home growers, typically used for breeding new cultivars.

Toxicology

Based on available information and horticultural experience, *Gasteria bicolor* is generally considered **non-toxic** to both humans and common household pets such as cats and dogs. While ingestion is not recommended and could potentially cause mild digestive upset if consumed in large quantities (as with any plant material not intended for consumption), it does not contain known harmful sap or compounds that cause severe poisoning, skin irritation, or systemic toxicity. It is often listed among safe houseplants for homes with pets. However, it is always prudent to prevent pets from chewing on plants, and if a pet ingests a significant amount of any plant and shows adverse symptoms, veterinary advice should be sought.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Mealybugs (often found nestled in leaf axils or undersides)
• Aphids (tend to congregate on new growth or flower stalks)
• Spider mites (less common, but can occur in dry, hot conditions, causing stippling)

Diseases:

• Root rot (caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil, leading to mushy roots and base)
• Fungal leaf spots (can occur in overly humid conditions or if leaves stay wet)

Other:

• Leaf yellowing (often a sign of overwatering or poor drainage, leading to root issues)
• Leaf browning/scorching (usually caused by too much direct sunlight, especially hot afternoon sun)
• Leaves becoming thin and wrinkled (indicates underwatering)
• Lack of new growth or stretched appearance (etiolation) (usually due to insufficient light)

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

The species *Gasteria bicolor* itself is relatively common in cultivation and not considered rare. Its ease of propagation via offsets contributes to its wide availability. However, certain specific forms, selected cultivars, or variegated specimens of *Gasteria bicolor* can be less common or even rare, particularly unique patterns, colors, or mutations that don’t readily occur or are difficult to propagate true to type. Natural variability within the species also means some naturally occurring forms might be less frequently encountered in the trade than the typical form.

Value:

The market value of *Gasteria bicolor* is generally modest due to its common availability and ease of growth. A standard specimen of *Gasteria bicolor* is typically quite affordable. Factors that can significantly increase the value include:

• Size and Maturity: Larger, more mature plants with multiple offsets tend to command higher prices than small pups.
• Variegation: Variegated forms (leaves with streaks or patches of white, yellow, or pink) are much rarer and highly sought after by collectors, drastically increasing the value depending on the quality and stability of the variegation.
• Unusual Forms/Cultivars: Specific named cultivars or forms with unique leaf shapes, colors, or patterns developed through selection can have a higher value.
• Provenance: Plants from reputable growers or collections might sometimes fetch slightly higher prices, especially if they are particularly fine examples or rare forms.
• Current Trends: As with all plants, popularity and collector trends can temporarily influence demand and price.