|
|
[2nd Image]
|
 |
|
|
| Category: Succulent |
| Family: Aloeaceae (now Asphodeloideae) |
| Origin: South Africa (Africa) |
| Evergreen: Yes |
| Flower Color: Pink & White |
| Bloomtime: Summer |
| Height: <1 foot |
| Width: 1-2 feet |
| Exposure: Sun or Shade |
| Seaside: Yes |
| Summer Dry: Yes |
| Irrigation (H2O Info): Low Water Needs |
| Winter Hardiness: 20-25° F |
|
|
|
|
Gasteria carinata (Keeled Ox-tongue) - A stemless (caulescent) aloe-like succulent that forms dense colonies several feet wide of clustered rosettes of upright 6 to 8 inch long triangular spear shaped leaves that are opposite each other at first, but becoming more rosulate with age. The upper side of the dark green leaves have a shallow channel towards the base but then flattens out near the narrow tip and both surfaces are slightly bumpy with white spots somewhat arranged in horizontal bands and with leaf margins that are rough to the touch. In mid to late winter appear the 2 foot long slender inflorescences bearing flowers that are salmon pink flowers at their swollen (gasteriform) base and white with green stripes toward the tips. This species is endemic to the eastern part of the Western Cape from close to the ocean at sea level up to 1,000 feet in elevation where it is found growing in rocky hills of the dry fynbos vegetation, often shaded by shrubs. Gasteria carinatais quite variable in leaf shape, color and texture with this one best matching Gasteria carinata var. carinata. The name for the genus comes from the Greek word 'gaster' meaning "stomach", in reference to the swollen shape of the base of the flower and the specific epithet is derived from Latin word meaning "a keel" in reference to its keeled leaves, though this form does not show this characteristic as obvious. It is also commonly known as the Bredasdorp Gasteria.
The information about Gasteria carinata var. carinata displayed on this web page is based on our research conducted in the nursery's horticultural library and from reliable online resources. We also include observations made about it as it grows in our nursery gardens and other gardens we have visited, as well how the crops have performed in containers in our nursery field. We will also incorporate comments we receive from others and welcome hearing from anyone with additional information, particularly if they can share cultural information that would aid others in growing this plant. |
| |
|
|
|
