Lithops (Living Stones)
Lithops spp.
One of the most unusual plants on Earth. Lithops look like small stones or pebbles. They split open annually to reveal new leaf pairs. A collector's gem.
hard
Full Sun (5-6 hours direct)
Very low — almost no water during dormancy
2-3 years to mature size from seed
How to Grow
Sow tiny seeds on the surface of sandy cactus mix — do not cover. Mist lightly and cover with plastic to maintain humidity. Remove cover after germination. Water very sparingly once established. Allow old leaves to dry and reabsorb before watering again in autumn.
Growth Phases
Germination (7-14 days)
Tiny green dots emerge on soil surface
First Pair (2-4 months)
First stone-like leaf pair forms
Annual Split (1-2 months annually)
Old leaves shrivel as new pair emerges
Maturity (2-3 years)
Full-sized living stones — may even flower
Care Tips
- •Do NOT water during the splitting phase
- •Looks like colorful pebbles — kids love them
- •Can live for decades in the right conditions
- •Overwatering kills them — when in doubt, don't water
Companion Plants
Community Interest
Real-time — updates when others show interest