Living Stone
lithops karasmontana
Also known as: ["Split Rock","Living Stone Plant"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant native to southern Africa, resembling 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 karasmontana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or outdoor rock garden in arid conditions
- 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 to prevent 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 once a year or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or discolored parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or direct morning sun (4–6 hours/day); adjust to avoid intense midday sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light during peak summer; avoid prolonged exposure to harsh afternoon sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; provide shade during hottest part of day; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light.
Watering
every 2–4 weeks during growing season, none in dormant season
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries completely between waterings; water only during active growth periods.
Soil
fast-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use gritty soil; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid peat-heavy mixes.
Temperature
Ideal range 50–75°F (10–24°C); prefers cooler temperatures during dormancy; tolerates mild frost but not prolonged cold.
Monitor temperature changes; adjust watering based on seasonal needs; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then monthly during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; dilute to quarter strength for safety; avoid fertilizing when soil is dry.
Propagation
Methods
Stem or leaf cuttings; division of offsets is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy leaf/offset.
- Let cut end dry for a few days.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep lightly moist.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or autumn when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid (50–60%), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings may take 1–3 months to root; offsets establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering cuttings; provide gentle warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Carefully twist off dead leaves or use sterilized scissors for precise cuts.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged leaves to encourage new growth.
Tools
Sterilized scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; remove dead leaves; avoid cutting healthy parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant outgrows its container; offsets may need separating.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots gently; avoid overwatering post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water during active growth; avoid water on leaves; ensure drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly onto the soil, avoiding the plant's leaves or bodies; ensure water reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away completely; water in the morning to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growing season (spring/autumn), typically every 3–4 weeks; avoid watering during dormancy (summer/winter) to prevent rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to standard potting mix to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Sunken, shriveled bodies (cold stress); bleached or white patches (heat/sunburn); delayed growth or flowering.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolism and can cause water uptake issues, leading to shriveled bodies and potential rot if watered.
Solution: Reduce watering in cold periods; move to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause sunburn, bleaching, or dehydration, even if soil is dry, due to rapid water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase air circulation; water sparingly if soil is dry, but avoid wetting leaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant periods; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a diluted cactus fertilizer (half strength) once during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLithops karasmontana is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLithops karasmontana is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLithops karasmontana 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 due to its small size and lack of culinary value.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Lithops karasmontana?
A: Water sparingly, only when the plant is actively growing (typically in autumn and spring), allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Why are my Lithops turning brown or shriveling?
A: This is often due to overwatering or incorrect soil mix. Ensure well-draining soil and avoid excessive moisture.
Q: Can Lithops karasmontana 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 growi |
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