How to Grow Gasteria
Gasteria obliqua
Gasteria is an easy-care succulent closely related to Haworthia and Aloe, with thick tongue-shaped leaves often decorated with white spots or raised tubercles. It is one of the most shade-tolerant succulents, making it perfect for north-facing windowsills or rooms with limited light. Water only when the soil is completely dry, use well-draining cactus compost, and keep above 5°C in winter. It produces tubular stomach-shaped flowers on arching stems in spring. Non-toxic to pets.
Yearly Lifecycle
Care Essentials
Feed monthly with a dilute cactus and succulent fertiliser during spring and summer only. Do not feed in autumn or winter.
Watch For
- Mealybug
- Root rot from overwatering
- Vine weevil grubs
- Fungus gnats
Care Requirements
Light
Bright indirect light, tolerates shade
One of the most shade-tolerant succulents. Thrives on north-facing windowsills or in rooms with limited light. Avoid direct midday sun which can scorch leaves.
Watering
Only when soil is completely dry
Water sparingly, only when compost is fully dry. Reduce significantly in winter during dormancy. Bottom watering is preferred to avoid moisture sitting in the rosette.
Fertilizing
Monthly cactus feed, spring and summer only
Feed monthly with a dilute cactus and succulent fertiliser during spring and summer. Do not feed in autumn or winter when the plant is dormant.
