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Gasteria nitida var. armstrongii
Ideally, place in partial shade.
Always water a few days after the substrate has dried out. Reduce watering in winter.
It can withstand temperatures as low as -3.9 °C for short periods. However, the plant is not frost-resistant.
The leaves of this Gasteria have a bumpy surface that resembles the texture of the human tongue.
Gasteria nitida var. armstrongii originates from the Gamtoos Valley near Jeffreys Bay in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. It is also known by the nickname Cow Tongue. Several cultivated clones exist, differing mainly in leaf width and length, with many forms being selected and developed especially in Japan.
This gasteria forms very low, solid rosettes with a few thick leaves that lie close to the soil surface. The leaves are dark green with a distinctly rough texture, and this form is characterized by longer leaves. They grow in only two directions, and the rosette usually reaches around 10 cm in width. It is a slow-growing succulent.
The inflorescence is simple and unbranched, and it can grow up to about 50 cm long. It carries pinkish-red flowers with yellow-green tips, typically stomach-shaped, reaching up to 2.5 cm in length.
This plant is easy to grow, develops slowly, and responds well to occasional fertilizing. In full sun, the leaves may take on a chestnut-red tint. If you are looking for a compact species with an unusual leaf shape, Gasteria nitida var. armstrongii is an excellent choice for your collection.