Lithops
Lithops mimic small stones to hide from herbivores in arid regions. They consist of two succulent leaf pairs joined at the base, creating a cleft where flowers and new growth emerge. Their upper surfaces feature complex patterns and translucent windows that allow sunlight to penetrate internal tissues.
Origin and Natural Habitat
These plants occur in arid regions across Southern Africa. They inhabit open, stony plains and quartz fields. This environment forces them to grow flush with the ground to escape intense solar heat. They survive long droughts by storing water within their fleshy bodies.
Plant Characteristics
The bodies reach 2 cm to 5 cm wide. Each plant undergoes an annual renewal cycle where a new pair of leaves pushes out from the fissure. White or yellow flowers appear during autumn, often lasting several days. The old leaf remains shrink and dry as the new body develops.
Care Guide
Light
Place in direct, bright sunlight. Insufficient light causes the plant to lose its compact, stone-like form. Acclimatize the plant gradually to prevent skin burn.
Soil
The long taproot requires rapid drainage. The LDP Super Drainage Mix offers ideal aeration and drainage.
Water
Water heavily during the active growth periods of autumn and spring. Keep the soil bone-dry during the summer dormancy and the winter leaf-renewal phase. Allow the substrate to dry completely between applications.
Pot Size
Use deep, narrow pots to accommodate the long taproot. Avoid wide, shallow containers that hold too much moisture.
Temperature
Keep temperatures between 10°C and 25°C. Protect the plants from hard frost during the winter months.
Humidity
Maintain low humidity and high airflow. Stagnant air in the fissure causes fungal rot.
Fertilizing
Apply a diluted, low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer once during the autumn growth period. Do not feed during the rest of the year.
Growing Season
Lithops grow during the autumn and spring. They enter dormancy during the peak summer heat and perform leaf regeneration during the winter months. Adjust your watering schedule to match these cycles.
Propagation
You can propagate these plants through seed or division.
Seed: Sow the tiny seeds on the surface of a sterilized, sandy mix during autumn. Cover the container to maintain high, consistent moisture. Remove the cover gradually after germination to harden the seedlings. Keep the young plants in bright, indirect light.
Division: Carefully lift the cluster from the pot during spring. Use a sterile blade to separate the heads. Ensure each segment retains a portion of the taproot. Plant the divisions in a dry, mineral substrate. Wait one week before applying light water to allow the cuts to callus.