Native to southern Africa and relatives of Aloe, plants in the Gasteria genus are named after the red, sack- or stomach-like shape of the flower. Stemless, with spotted thick leaves arranged in pairs or spirals, gasterias are typically used as houseplants and tolerate low light levels. Cultivated gasterias are unlikely to bear flowers, which hang from arching stems in summer, but you may be lucky.
Gasteria ‘Flow’ is a striking variety, with dark green, triangular-shaped leaves with white spots. It’s perfect for growing as a houseplant, where it will require little maintenance. Grow Gasteria ‘Flow’ at room temperature in well-drained, cactus compost and water sparingly. Gasteria prefers gentle sunlight as opposed to full afternoon sun.
Gasteria grow beautifully in the Bay Area and San Francisco in partial shade to dappled sunlight.
