Lithops

Lithops lesliei

succulent

verifiedReviewed by the GreenScout Team

Lithops lesliei, known as Living Stones or Pebble Plants, is a unique dwarf succulent native to South Africa that mimics pebbles or stones as a natural camouflage. It consists of a pair of thick, fused leaves with a distinctive slit on top, and produces vibrant yellow or white daisy-like flowers in autumn. This species is compact and slow-growing, making it excellent for small spaces and collections.

Common Problems

Select the problem your Lithops is experiencing to get a treatment guide.

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Overwateringchevron_right

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Root Rotchevron_right

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Mushy Stemschevron_right

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Leggy Growthchevron_right

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Underwateringchevron_right

Care Guide

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Light

Full sun (6+ hours daily); requires very bright light to maintain compact shape and proper coloration. Insufficient light causes elongation.

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Water

Water sparingly and only during growing season (summer to early autumn); allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Keep nearly dry in winter and spring dormancy.

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Soil

Very gritty, well-draining mix with minimal organic matter; use 50% cactus soil and 50% coarse sand or perlite.

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Fertiliser

Apply very diluted fertilizer once or twice in growing season; avoid nitrogen-rich formulas as they promote excessive leaf growth.

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Temperature

Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C) in growing season; requires cool rest period at 50–55°F (10–13°C) in winter to promote flowering.

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Humidity

Very low humidity; prefers dry air and good ventilation to prevent rot. Do not mist.

Toxicity

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Non-toxic; safe for all household members and pets.

Common Diseases

filter_dramaRoot Rotchevron_right

Common Pests

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Seasonal Care

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Resume regular watering and feeding as growth picks up.

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Peak growing season. Water and feed regularly.

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Reduce watering as growth slows. Stop heavy feeding.

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Minimal watering and feeding. Protect from frost if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Lithops look like a pebble instead of a plant?

It's a natural camouflage adaptation — Lithops consists of a pair of thick, fused leaves with a distinctive slit on top that mimics pebbles or stones to blend into its native South African habitat.

Why should I barely water my Lithops?

It should be watered sparingly and only during the growing season, kept nearly dry in winter and spring dormancy — overwatering is a common cause of failure for this species.