
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Lithops spp.
The 'Living Stone' from South Africa. Tiny succulents with two fused leaves that shed their outer skin to grow. Unique watering schedule makes them an advanced choice.
Lithops is a genus of succulent plants in the family Aizoaceae, native to the arid stony plains and rocky outcrops of southern Africa, primarily South Africa and Namibia. Their remarkable resemblance to pebbles provides camouflage against herbivores, earning them the common names 'living stones' and 'pebble plants'. Each plant consists of a pair of highly succulent, fused leaves separated by a central fissure, from which solitary daisy-like flowers emerge in autumn. Mature plants measure only 2–5 cm across and grow extremely slowly. Culture demands exceptionally fast-draining mineral substrate, maximum sunlight, and a strict seasonal watering regimen: minimal water from autumn through spring, complete drought in summer. Incorrect watering during the shedding cycle can cause the old leaf pair to fail to dry properly. Their unique appearance and challenging cultivation make them prized specimens among specialist collectors.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
southern Africa
Size
1-5cm
Temperature
5〜35℃(適温15〜25℃)
Humidity
30〜50%
Water: 1-2x monthly fall-spring / completely withhold in summer and during shedding
Ultra-fast-draining mix. Pumice and Kiryu sand dominant
Full sun essential. Insufficient light causes elongation and poor form
Old leaves split open for new growth in spring. No watering during this period
Overwatering is the #1 killer. When in doubt, don't water
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Lithops is 5〜35℃(適温15〜25℃). Recommended humidity is 30〜50%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Lithops typically reaches 1-5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Lithops feeds on: Water: 1-2x monthly fall-spring / completely withhold in summer and during shedding. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Lithops varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Find listings for this species
Browse Succulent ListingsComplete Lithops Care Guide: Molting, Watering & Summer Survival
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Complete care guide for Lithops: managing the molting cycle with water restriction, summer dormancy, autumn watering restart, light requirements, and choosing popular varieties.
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