Gasteria carinata (Mill.) Duval
Keeled Gasteria
Gasteria carinata is a South African succulent in the family Asphodelaceae, notable for its distichous (two-ranked, opposite rows) arrangement of dark green tongue-shaped leaves flecked with white spots and bumps. Its 20–30 cm height and exceptional tolerance of low-light conditions make it one of the most versatile and resilient indoor succulents available. Its name 'Gasteria' comes from the Greek 'gaster' (stomach) for the swollen shape of its flower.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Gasteria |
| Growth Habit | Distichous rosette (leaves in two opposite rows) that may spiralize with age; forms clumps via basal offsets; slow to moderate growth. |
| Conservation Status | Species not threatened. Well represented in cultivation and in wild populations of the Western Cape and Eastern Cape of South Africa. |
| pH Target | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Type | Porous succulent mix: quality all-purpose soil + 25–30% perlite. Adequate but not as extreme drainage as for cacti. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Tongue-shaped (linguiform) leaves, 10–20 cm, dark green with irregular white spots and bumps on both surfaces; pointed apex. Rough and textured surface to the touch.
ecoPendent tubular flowers, pinkish-orange with green base, 2–3 cm, with a stomach-shaped (gastric) swollen base; arranged in racemes on scapes 30–60 cm. Blooms in spring.
ecoPractically nonexistent in young specimens; a short stem may appear with age. The distichous leaf arrangement is the most identifying feature.
ecoFleshy, white roots of moderate depth; drought-resistant but sensitive to waterlogging.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Porous succulent mix: quality all-purpose soil + 25–30% perlite. Adequate but not as extreme drainage as for cacti.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Remove the mother plant from the pot and separate basal offsets.
- 2 Cut with a sterilized blade; preserve the offset's roots.
- 3 Let dry 1–2 days and plant in well-drained substrate.
- 4 Keep in partial shade without watering for the first 7–10 days.
- 1 Remove a healthy outer-row leaf with gentle twist.
- 2 Let the cut dry for 2–3 days.
- 3 Place horizontally on dry substrate in indirect light.
- 4 Mist gently every 3–4 days; roots in 6–10 weeks.
Perfect for interior rooms without direct sunlight; the only succulent that truly tolerates a north-facing room.
Watering at the same frequency as full-sun succulents, causing rot.
Every 2–3 years in spring when offsets have filled the pot.
Half-strength succulent fertilizer once in spring and once in early summer; none for the rest of the year.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans, dogs, and cats according to ASPCA. One of the safest succulents for homes with pets.
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Plant Health
Mealybugs between the two rows of leaves; inspect regularly; treat with isopropyl alcohol applied with a brush.
Root rot from excess watering or compacted substrate; fleshy roots rot quickly.
Brown scales (Coccus spp.) on leaves; scrape off with a wooden stick and treat with neem oil.
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"In its natural South African fynbos habitat, Gasteria carinata grows under the shade of shrubs and in south-facing rock crevices (shade) where direct radiation is minimal; this adaptation to dim light makes it an invaluable tool for sustainable interior garden design."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.