Jewel Plant
titanopsis calcarea
Also known as: ["Stone Plant","Titanopsis"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant native to South Africa, known for its attractive, stone-like appearance and fleshy leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Titanopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Titanopsis calcarea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead/damaged growth is observed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to remove only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or several hours of direct morning sun (4–6 hours/day). Adjust to avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to intense light to prevent scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade during peak summer hours. Indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderateeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during hottest part of day; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging during dormancy.
Soil
fast-draining, sandy cactus mix with some limestone content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty soil mix; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F or 18–27°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in warmth. Avoid temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; dilute fertilizer to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or offsets.Offsets are the most reliable method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select a healthy offset or stem cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Clean knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Use offsets for higher success rates; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged stems at the base using clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; avoid over-potting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the soil level, avoiding the plant's leaves and crown. Ensure water penetrates the root zone deeply but does not pool. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to mimic dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage and aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or blackened stems from cold stress; wilting or leaf burn from excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to root damage and susceptibility to rot. Prolonged cold can cause irreversible tissue damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid watering during cold spells; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, and wilting. High temperatures combined with intense light may scorch leaves.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer (half-strength) once monthly during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTitanopsis calcarea is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTitanopsis calcarea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTitanopsis calcarea is not known to exhibit any toxic effects in humans. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically consumed as food.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Titanopsis calcarea?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during the growing season.
Q: Does Titanopsis calcarea require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which helps maintain its vibrant color and compact form.
Q: Can Titanopsis calcarea be grown indoors?
A: While possible, it prefers outdoor conditions with ample sunlight; indoor growth may require supplemental lighting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
