Oxtail Plant
gasteria carinata
Also known as: ["Cow-tail Plant","Stargazer"]
Overview
A succulent species native to South Africa, known for its thick, fleshy, tongue-like leaves arranged in a rosette pattern.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Gasteria |
| Botanical Name: | Gasteria carinata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, indirect light or outdoor shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, yellowing, or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense sun to prevent scorching; place in east-facing windows or shaded outdoor spots.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant monthly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; adjust frequency based on season and environmental conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets (pups); leaf cuttings are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset or cut stem.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; cuttings may take 4–8 weeks to root and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; sterilize tools; prune carefully; dispose of removed material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; provides fresh soil and room for growth.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting the leaves; water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growth (spring/summer) every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; reduce frequency to monthly or less in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage, and increases susceptibility to pests in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown spots; growth may halt in temperatures above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGasteria carinata is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGasteria carinata is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful effects when ingested by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGasteria carinata is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Gasteria carinata?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does Gasteria carinata need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Gasteria carinata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright indirect light or parti |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
