Cow Tongue Plant (Gasteria verrucosa)

Cow Tongue Plant

Gasteria verrucosa

Fleshy spotted leaves hold desert resilience like living stone carvings. Succulent foliage plant; common name: Cow Tongue Plant.

Partial sun
1/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect light; tolerates partial shade, avoid prolonged direct summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Allow soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives at 15–25°C; tolerate brief drops to 5°C in winter with dry soil
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Thick, tongue-shaped succulent leaves with white warty spots, arranged in opposite rosettes
  • Flower: Tubular, pinkish-orange flowers on tall, slender stalks
  • Stem: Short, compact stem hidden by dense leaf rosettes
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Care Guide

Watering

Water when top 5 cm of soil is fully dry; reduce frequency in humid weather

Fertilization

Diluted succulent feed once every 2 months. Use low-nitrogen, phosphorus-rich diluted liquid feed to support flowering

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush clean, dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface to boost calcium levels and improve drainage
Pruning
  • Remove dried, outer leaves to maintain a tidy rosette shape
  • Trim spent flower stalks after blooming to conserve plant energy
  • Divide overcrowded clumps in spring for propagation and repotting
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for indoor planters and rock gardens