Starry Night
gasteria obliqua
Also known as: ["Starry Night","Starry Night Gasteria"]
Overview
A succulent species with thick, fleshy, tongue-like leaves arranged in a rosette pattern, native to South Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","shade tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus: | Gasteria |
| Botanical Name: | Gasteria obliqua |
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":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate some direct morning sun; adjust for stronger summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; avoid intense afternoon sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright indirect light or partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust based on season and humidity.
Soil
well-draining, sandy potting mix with added perlite or pumice
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature
Ideal range 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerate mild frost but prefer warmer conditions; reduce watering in cooler months.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from sudden temperature drops; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil; stop feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets;Offsets are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate offset from parent.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in well-draining soil.
- Water sparingly until rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain moderate humidity around cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Offsets root in 2–4 weeks; mature plants establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cut ends to callous before planting; use clean tools to prevent infection; keep soil lightly moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip leaves at the base with clean, sharp tools; avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; use clean tools; cut close to the base; dispose of removed leaves.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
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 roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding foliage; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry out between waterings; reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or soft stems from cold; wilting or scorching from excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; reduce watering; provide frost protection if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or develop brown edges; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly in spring and summer; avoid feeding in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGasteria obliqua is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known adverse effects on feline health when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGasteria obliqua is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would affect canine health.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGasteria obliqua is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects on human health when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Gasteria obliqua?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, typically every 2-3 weeks.
Q: Does Gasteria obliqua need direct sunlight?
A: It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Gasteria obliqua 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 activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
