Gasteria baylissiana, also known as the Suurberg Gasteria, is an easy-to-grow succulent that makes a wonderful addition to any succulent lover’s collection. It is a succulent shrub that has fern-like leaves and clusters of red flowers.
Suurberg Gasteria plants are an attractive gasteria species that originates from the Suurberg region of South Africa, specifically in the northwest and north-central parts of Limpopo province, and in parts of Mpumalanga Province.
They get their name from the Suurberg mountain range that runs from northeast to southwest through Limpopo Province, near Seshego, Balfour, Tzaneen, and Polokwane.
If you’re looking to add this lovely plant to your home, here are some care tips on how to keep it healthy and happy.
Origin and distribution
Gasteria baylissiana is a small, slow-growing succulent that is native to the eastern cape of South Africa. It is found in rocky, mountainous areas and typically grows in crevices or on ledges. The plant gets its name from its unusual flowers, which resemble the stomachs of animals.
Gasteria baylissiana is not commonly found in cultivation, but it can be grown successfully indoors with proper care. Succulents are often propagated by cuttings because they are difficult to grow from seed. Plants will tolerate occasional periods of drought and prefer bright light but should be watered sparingly during the winter months.
In order to maintain the grayish coloration on the leaves, plants should never be fertilized with any fertilizer that contains nitrogen. A sign that your plant needs water is if the leaves turn black or brown due to low humidity.
To increase humidity, try placing your gasteria near a window where air circulates freely or under fluorescent lights. If you do have an automated watering system, make sure to calibrate the timer so your gasteria baylissiana receives no more than 1 inch of water per week.
Gasteria baylissiana propagation
One of the best ways to propagate your gasteria baylissiana is by leaf cuttings. To do this, simply remove a leaf from the plant and allow it to callous over for a few days. Once the leaf has been calloused, you can then plant it in well-draining soil. Water regularly and wait for new growth to appear.
You can also propagate your Gasteria by offsets. Offsets are small plants that form at the base of the main plant. These are easy to propagate because they have already started growing.
Simply detach an offset with a sharp object or using your fingers, wash it off with water, and pot it up with moist, but not wet soil. Leave the pot in bright indirect light for about two weeks before planting outside or putting inside as desired.
Offsets will usually grow faster than leaf cuttings so this might be an option if you need more plants fast!
Another way to propagate your Gasteria is by taking root cuttings. Root cuttings are thin pieces of roots taken from any area on the parent plant and planted into damp, sandy soil in a large container. Once you notice roots forming on the cutting, place them into another container filled with dirt. Be sure to place them where they will get lots of sun when they mature and fertilize often!
Gasteria baylissiana care information
Gasteria baylissiana is a low-maintenance succulent that can thrive indoors or outdoors. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. Allow the soil to dry out completely between watering. This succulent is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from extreme cold weather.
Light requirement
Gasteria baylissiana is a low-light plant that can tolerate both direct and indirect sunlight. However, too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch, so it’s important to find a balance. If you’re growing your plant indoors, place it near a window where it will receive bright, filtered light.
Soil/potting mix
A well-draining potting mix is essential for gasteria baylissiana, as they are susceptible to root rot. A cactus mix or a mix made with perlite or pumice can work well. The pot should have drainage holes in the bottom and should be no more than 4 inches deep.
When repotting, make sure that there is some soil beneath the roots and that the roots are not tightly bound together or matted down; gently tease them apart if needed.
Watering
These plants are drought tolerant, so they don’t need much water. However, during the hottest months of the year, they will appreciate a weekly watering. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again.
The plant can go without water for several weeks or even months if it’s in an area with low humidity and high temperatures. If you live in an area with very high humidity and warm temperatures, your gasteria baylissiana may require more frequent watering, especially during winter when it won’t be exposed to sunlight as often.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing your gasteria baylissiana (Suurberg Gasteria) is important to maintain its health and vigor. However, over-fertilizing can lead to problems such as leaf burn or nutrient deficiencies.
To avoid these problems, only fertilize when the plant is actively growing and use a balanced fertilizer with low nitrogen content. Furthermore, be sure to follow the instructions on the label of your specific product because they vary depending on the type of plant you are fertilizing. For example, if you have a cactus plant, it will need less water than say an African violet.
Temperature
The ideal temperature for this plant is between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature gets too hot, the leaves will start to turn brown and if it gets too cold, the leaves will turn black. It’s important to keep an eye on the temperature and make sure it doesn’t fluctuate too much.
An air conditioner or heater can be used to regulate the temperature in your home, but be careful not to let either one get too close.
Humidity
One of the most important things to remember when caring for a Suurberg Gasteria is humidity. These plants prefer a semi-desert climate with moderate humidity. If the air in your home is too dry, you may need to mist your plant regularly.
The ideal humidity range is between 40% and 60%. To keep track of how much moisture is in the air, use a hygrometer. It’s easy to find one at any local hardware store or garden center.
Pruning
If your gasteria baylissiana starts to look a bit leggy, you can give it a light pruning. Simply snip off the tips of the leaves to encourage new growth. If you want to give your plant a more significant trim, wait until the end of the growing season. Cut back the leaves by about one-third to one-half their length. Be sure to use sharp, clean shears to avoid damaging the plant.
When to repot
Repotting is only necessary every two to three years, and should be done in the spring. Be sure to use a well-draining potting mix and a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one. Water thoroughly after repotting and do not fertilize for six weeks.
Fertilizing too early can lead to an abundance of water on the leaves, which can cause them to rot. Feeding with an organic fertilizer once a month will help keep it healthy and beautiful!
Suurberg gasterias are best repotted in spring or early summer when new growth appears on the plant. They can be grown either in pots or garden beds, but need a minimum of full sun for a healthy-looking plant with good-sized leaves. Plant it at least one inch below soil level for maximum root development.
Dormancy/Winter rest
Gasteria baylissiana enter dormancy in winter. During this time, they will stop growing and their leaves will begin to brown. It is important to allow the plant to rest during this time and not to water it too much.
Watering should be reduced to once every two weeks and the pot should be allowed to dry out completely between watering. If the plant is kept too wet during dormancy, it may rot.
After about six months of dormancy, the leaves will green up again and new growth can be expected.
Gasteria baylissiana flower & fragrance
The flowers of gasteria baylissiana are small and tubular, borne on spikes. They are white with green stripes and have a faint, sweet fragrance. The blooming period is from late winter to early spring.
This species is noted for its long, fleshy leaves that are dark green in color with white spots. The leaves are arranged in a rosette and can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) long. The leaf margins are often dentate or serrate.
Growth rate
Gasteria baylissiana is a very slow-growing plant, so don’t be alarmed if it doesn’t seem to grow much in its first year or two. Once it gets going, though, it can add an inch or two of growth each year. The best way to encourage growth is to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized.
Toxicity
All parts of the gasteria baylissiana are poisonous if ingested. Symptoms of ingestion include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you suspect your pet has ingested any part of this plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. This plant is not known to be toxic to humans, but it is always best to err on the side of caution and avoid ingestion.
USDA hardiness zones
Gasteria baylissiana thrives best in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. It prefers well-drained soil and can be propagated by stem cuttings.
Pests and diseases
Gasteria baylissiana is a relatively easy plant to care for, but there are a few things to watch out for. Aphids, mealybugs, and scale can all be problems, as well as fungal diseases like powdery mildew and root rot.
Make sure that your Gasteria baylissiana has plenty of light exposure and water. If you notice any pests or diseases, use an insecticide or fungicide appropriate for the pest/disease you’re dealing with.
