A shade-tolerant succulent with thick tongue-shaped dark green leaves speckled in white, bearing arching sprays of curved stomach-shaped red-and-green flowers. An easy, forgiving, pet-safe collector's plant.
At a glance
- Plant type: Succulent
- Mature size: 15 cm H × 20 cm W
- Aspect: part shade or morning sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Ox Tongue
Gasteria bicolor is a slow-growing succulent in the Asphodelaceae family. It reaches around 15 cm tall and 20 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red flowers appear in spring.
Where to grow Ox Tongue
Ox Tongue suits arid and semi-arid, warm-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Ox Tongue does best in sandy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Ox Tongue handles dry conditions well once established. Feed as new growth begins, following the rate on a balanced garden fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Ox Tongue after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. For most gardens, it is low maintenance.
Using Ox Tongue in the garden
Ox Tongue earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Ox Tongue sits most comfortably beside plants adapted to dry conditions once established and arid and semi-arid climate. A small cluster gives stronger visual impact than isolated plants scattered through the garden.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe.
Buying Ox Tongue
Plant Sale lists Ox Tongue as potted plants. Use the quote builder above to ask about current stock, sizes and pricing.
