Genus of about 80 species of stemless or very short-stemmed, perennial succulents, usually offsetting freely to form clumps, found in the lowlands, and sometimes hillsides, if Namibia and South Africa. Their curious fleshy, spotted leaves and tubular flowers with swollen middles earned them their common name, as well as the Latin name, from gaster, or belly. The leaves arc out in two opposite rows when young, later forming a spiral rosette. In spring, slender flower stalks bear long-lasting blossoms, pink to vermilion with yellow-green tips. Established plants may flower right into winter. Seedpods ripen from green to brown. They like dry conditions, but unlike Aloes, need shade from midday sun, or their leaves will scorch.