Living Stone
lithops olivacea
Also known as: ["Split Rock","Living Pebble"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant native to southern Africa, resembling small stones or pebbles to avoid predation.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Genus: | Lithops |
| Botanical Name: | Lithops olivacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with excellent drainage, or outdoor in a rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining; must avoid waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Sandy, well-draining cactus mix with added perlite or pumice.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; only remove unhealthy parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 4–6 hours/day; direct morning sun is tolerated; avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to intense light; protect from scorching by providing shade during peak sun hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing near hot windows in summer.
Watering
every 2–4 weeks during active growing season, none during dormancy
Water only when soil is fully dry; avoid water on leaves or in fissures; reduce watering in dormancy.
Soil
fast-draining, sandy, or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty mix; avoid peat-heavy soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Ideal range 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers moderate temperatures; avoid extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain stable conditions during dormancy.
Fertilizing
rarely, if ever, as they are adapted to nutrient-poor soils
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute to quarter strength for safety; skip if unsure.
Propagation
Methods
Stem or leaf cuttings; division of clumps is also possible.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Cut healthy leaf/section.
- Let callus form (1–2 days).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring, when plants are actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), high humidity (50–70%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1); slightly moist but not wet.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
4–8 weeks for roots; 6–12 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide gentle warmth; be patient.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Carefully twist or cut away dead leaves at the base; avoid damaging healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth.
Tools
Small, sharp scissors or knife; sterilized.
Checklist
Check for dead leaves; sterilize tools; cut carefully; dispose of removed parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too deep (Lithops prefer shallow pots).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim dead roots; replace with fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; only when necessary to avoid disturbance.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; avoid watering for a week.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid water on leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly into the soil at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to prevent fungal growth; avoid overhead watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growing season (spring/autumn), avoiding water in dormant summer/winter months; soak soil thoroughly when watering, allowing it to dry completely between sessions.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting mix; ensure large particle size for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or shriveling in cold; sunburn or bleaching in excessive heat; slow growth or bud drop in stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolism; prolonged cold can cause root rot or tissue damage; dormancy may be induced.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; provide gentle bottom heat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause dehydration, sunburn, or premature leaf shedding; may lead to etiolation if not shaded.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water carefully; move to a cooler spot if possible.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use diluted cactus fertilizer (half strength) once in spring; avoid fertilizing during dormancy; apply to moist soil.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLithops olivacea is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLithops olivacea is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLithops olivacea is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption, though it is not typically consumed due to its small size and lack of culinary value.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Lithops olivacea?
A: Water sparingly, only when the plant is actively growing (usually after a dry period), and allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Why are my Lithops turning yellow?
A: Overwatering is the most common cause. Ensure proper drainage and reduce watering frequency.
Q: Can Lithops be grown indoors?
A: Yes, they thrive indoors in bright, indirect light with minimal watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Aizoaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–4 weeks during activ |
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