How to Grow Lithops and Other Living Stone Plants

 A Complete Guide

Often referred to as "living stones" or "pebble plants," lithops are an intriguing class of succulents that are indigenous to southern Africa. These tiny, mimicry masters resemble small stones or pebbles to avoid being eaten by herbivores in their natural habitat. Their remarkable appearance, compact growth, and minimal water requirements make them highly attractive to succulent enthusiasts and indoor gardeners.

In addition to Lithops, other similar plants that share the "living stone" title include Pleiospilos and Conophytum, both of which also thrive in arid environments and mimic stones or rocks. Growing these unique plants can be incredibly rewarding, but it requires an understanding of their natural conditions and specific care needs. This article provides a comprehensive guide to successfully growing Lithops and their living stone cousins.

1. Understanding Lithops and Other Living Stones

Lithops belong to the Aizoaceae family and are native to the desert regions of Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa.  Their camouflaged look allows them to blend in with the rocky surroundings. Each plant is made up of two thick, fleshy leaves that store water and are partially buried in the soil. A slit between the leaves produces a daisy-like flower in late summer or autumn.

Pleiospilos and Conophytum are closely related to Lithops and also display rock-mimicking features. Pleiospilos, like Pleiospilos nelii, resemble split rocks, while Conophytum species often look like tiny buttons or jellybeans.

2. Choosing the Right Environment

Living stones naturally grow in harsh, dry, and sunny environments. To replicate their natural conditions indoors or in a garden, certain factors must be considered:

• Light: At least five hours of direct sunlight every day are necessary for lithops and other living stones to thrive. A south facing windowsill is ideal indoors. If natural light is insufficient, you can use a full spectrum grow light.
• Temperature: These plants prefer warm conditions. The ideal temperature range is 18°C to 29°C (65°F to 85°F). They can tolerate slight drops but should not be exposed to frost.
• Air Circulation: Fungal illnesses can be avoided with proper air flow. Avoid overly humid environments.

3. The Ideal Soil Mix

Because Lithops and similar succulents are prone to root rot, soil must be fast-draining and gritty. A standard cactus or succulent mix works well but enhancing it with additional mineral content is beneficial.

DIY Soil Mix for Lithops:

• 50% coarse sand or perlite
• 30% cactus potting soil
• 20% pumice or crushed granite

Peat-based soils should not be used because they retain too much moisture.

4. Pot Selection

Lithops have relatively small root systems but grow best in shallow, wide pots that allow roots to spread horizontally. Use terracotta or clay pots with drainage holes to help wick away excess moisture and reduce the risk of overwatering.

If planting multiple Lithops together, space them about 2 inches apart to avoid overcrowding.

5. Watering Rules: Less is More

One of the most common mistakes in growing Lithops is overwatering. In their natural habitat, they might go months without rainfall. They retain water in their leaves as a result of adaptation to this shortage. Overwatering causes them to rot from the inside out.

Watering Guidelines:

• Spring & Fall (active growth): Water sparingly only when the soil is completely dry, roughly every 2–4 weeks.
• Summer (dormancy): Avoid watering. Lithops go dormant and don’t need moisture.
• Winter (leaf renewal): Do not water during this phase. Old leaves dry out while new ones grow inside. Watering during this time can cause splitting.

Always water at the base and avoid getting water on the plant body.

6. Fertilizing

Fertilizer isn't always necessary, but a light feeding can help during the active growing season. Use a diluted cactus fertilizer (half-strength) once in early spring and again in fall. Avoid fertilizing during dormancy or flowering.

7. Repotting and Propagation

Lithops and their relatives grow slowly, so they don’t need frequent repotting only every 3–5 years or when the pot becomes crowded.

Steps for Repotting:

1.    Wait until early spring or late summer.

2.    Gently lift the plant out, being careful with roots.

3.    Replant in fresh, dry succulent soil.

4.    Don’t water for a week after repotting to allow roots to adjust.

Propagation Methods:

• Seed propagation is the most reliable method. Sow seeds in a shallow tray with well-draining soil and keep lightly moist until germination (usually 1–3 weeks).
• Division is possible for Conophytum or Pleiospilos when they form clumps. Lithops rarely divide.

8. Common Issues and Solutions

• Overwatering/Rot: The most common issue. If the leaves look mushy or translucent, reduce watering immediately.
• Etiolation (Stretching): Caused by insufficient light. Move the plant to a brighter spot or use artificial lighting.
• Pests: Occasionally, mealybugs may appear. Use insecticidal soap or an alcohol-dipped cotton swab to remove them.

9. Flowering and Seasonal Cycle

Lithops produce beautiful flowers, often yellow or white, that bloom in autumn. The blooms open during the day and close at night for about a week. After flowering, the plant begins its renewal cycle: the old leaf pair will wrinkle and dry out while a new pair grows from the center. It’s crucial not to water during this time.

 

10. Growing Other Living Stones

Pleiospilos (e.g., Pleiospilos nelii, "Split Rock"):

• Similar care to Lithops but may need slightly more water.
• Flowers are larger and usually appear in early spring.

Conophytum:

• Many varieties are winter growers, meaning their active period is in the cooler months.
• Require less intense sunlight than Lithops but still prefer bright conditions.
• Enter dormancy in summer and need little to no water then.

Understanding the growth cycles of these plants is essential to avoid accidental overwatering during dormancy.

Conclusion

Growing Lithops and other living stone plants is a delightful experience for plant lovers who appreciate nature’s subtle artistry and efficiency. This low maintenance, drought-tolerant plants require a mindful approach to watering, lots of light, and patience. By replicating their natural environment and respecting their seasonal rhythms, you can enjoy their unique beauty and watch them bloom into tiny, living gems.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced succulent grower, incorporating living stones into your collection adds a touch of the extraordinary and a satisfying gardening challenge.