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Plant Profiles / Living stones
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Living stones
Lithops spp. · Pebble plants, flowering stones
Tiny paired-leaf succulents that look like pebbles, with daisy-like flowers bursting from the split in autumn.
Bright light to sunLight
RarelyWater
ModerateCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Bright light to sun
ShadeFull sun
Needs strong light to stay compact.
Water
Rarely
DryWet
Water lightly in autumn growth only; none in winter and summer rest.
Humidity
Low
LowHigh
Dry air.
Temperature
5–35°C (41–95°F)
CoolWarm
Keep dry in cold.
Growth
Very slow
SlowFast
Grows 2–4 cm tall.
Soil
Very gritty mix
LeanRich
Mostly grit or pumice.
Fertiliser
Rarely
RarelyOften
Once a year at most.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
Lithops come from southern Africa, where they hide among stones. Each year a new pair of leaves grows inside the old one, which shrivels away. They need very little water and a strict dry rest.
Best spots
Very bright windowsills, shallow pots and sunny indoor shelves.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Lithops spp. |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Origin | Southern Africa |
| Plant type | Succulent |
| Mature size | 2–4 cm |
| Growth rate | Very slow |
| Flowers | White or yellow daisies |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Seed or division |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Water
Flowering
Rest
Repot
WaterFloweringRestRepot
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Split or burst leaves | Watered too much. |
| Mushy base | Rot; stop watering. |
| Tall, stretched leaves | More light needed. |
| Old leaves not shrivelling | Stop watering until they do. |
Common questions
When should I water?
Mostly in autumn when growing.
Why is it splitting?
New leaves emerging; don't water then.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
Can I group them?
Yes, they look great in a shallow bowl.
