Gasteria bicolor

Gasteria bicolor

Lawyer's Tongue

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Taxonomy

Common Names

Lawyer's TongueOx Tongue

Context

nativeRegion

South Africa, primarily the Eastern Cape Province.

usdaZones

9-11

companionPlants

Haworthia, Aloe, Sansevieria, Echeveria

culturalUses

Grown as an ornamental for its unique foliage; popular in succulent collections and dish gardens.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Avoid direct harsh sunlight, which can scorch leaves.

WateringWater thoroughly when the soil is dry; allow the soil to dry between waterings. Tolerates some drought; avoid overwatering.

SoilWell-draining, gritty cactus or succulent mix is best. Good drainage is critical to prevent root rot.

FertilizerFeed sparingly with a diluted cactus fertilizer during the growing season (spring to summer), once every 4-6 weeks.

HumidityTolerates normal indoor humidity; no special requirement.

TemperatureThrives in temperatures between 16-28°C (60-82°F), but should be kept above 5°C (41°F).

HabitRosette-forming succulent with thick, spotted leaves; can produce offsets.

Mature SizeUp to 20 cm (8 inches) in height and spread.

Growth RateSlow-growing.

BloomingProduces tubular salmon-pink to orange flowers on tall spikes, usually in spring to summer.

DormancyEnters a period of reduced growth in winter; minimal watering required.

MethodsOffsets, Leaf cuttings, Seed

DifficultyEasy to moderate

Best SeasonSpring to early summer

PruningRemove old or damaged leaves as needed. Cut off spent flower stalks.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when rootbound, preferably in spring.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to mealybugs and root rot if overwatered. Generally resistant to most pests.

ToxicityNon-toxic to humans and pets.

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