Lithops
Lithops, commonly referred to as living stones, are fascinating succulents that closely resemble small pebbles or stones. Their unique appearance and intriguing growth habits make them a popular choice among plant enthusiasts. With a basic understanding of how Lithops grow and thrive, caring for these remarkable plants is straightforward and rewarding. Delve into the extraordinary world of living stones and discover what makes Lithops such a captivating addition to any collection.
Lithops are commonly referred to as "living stones" due to their remarkable resemblance to small pebbles or rocks. This stone-like appearance enables them to blend seamlessly into their natural surroundings, providing an effective camouflage against grazing animals that might otherwise eat them in the wild.
These unique plants are highly adapted to endure the challenging conditions of the African wilderness, where rainfall can be absent for extended periods—sometimes lasting many months or even years. To survive in such an environment, lithops have evolved exceptional water conservation strategies. They are capable of storing water within their thick leaves, allowing them to withstand prolonged drought. Additionally, lithops possess the ability to regenerate, producing new growth from the remnants of the previous year's leaves. This cycle of renewal supports their survival during harsh, arid conditions.
Growth and Dormancy Cycle of Lithops
Lithops are classified as winter growers, carrying out their growth primarily during the autumn and early spring. As temperatures begin to rise and the environment grows hotter, lithops enter a period of dormancy. This dormancy is a vital adaptation, allowing the plants to conserve precious water during the harshest, driest months.
In their native African environments, the arrival of rainfall in the cooler months signals a burst of activity for lithops. These remarkable plants are quick to respond—absorbing water, producing flowers, and setting seed rapidly before the rains stop. This brief window is crucial for their survival and reproduction.
After the rainy period has ended, lithops rely on water reserves stored in the two leaves from the previous year. These reserves nourish the plant's new growth, sustaining it until the next rainfall. Once this stored water is depleted, the plant returns to dormancy and remains inactive until the cycle begins again with the next rainfall.
Understanding Lithops Care Through Their Growth Cycle
A clear understanding of the lithops growth cycle is invaluable for successful care. Their annual rhythm of growth and dormancy dictates how and when they should be watered and maintained.
The following chart outlines the key phases of lithops development, their watering requirements, and periods of dormancy. Adhering to this guide will help ensure your lithops stay healthy and flourish under your care.
Watering Lithops: Timing and Technique
Proper watering is crucial for the health of lithops, as watering at the wrong time may lead to rot or cause the leaves to swell excessively. It is important to be mindful of the plant’s natural growth cycles to avoid overwatering.
Splitting and New Growth
Lithops begin to split in late February, when new leaves start to emerge from the centre of the previous year’s growth. During this period, it is essential to refrain from watering. Watering while the plant is splitting can result in the retention of the old leaf, causing the plant to split awkwardly and become unsightly. Overwatering at this stage also encourages the plant to bulge and grow unnaturally tall.
Resuming Watering After Splitting
Once the splitting process is complete, you will notice two dry, papery cases on either side of the lithop. At this point, the plant has utilised all the water stored in the previous year’s leaves to support the new growth. This is the appropriate time to water. Give the plant a thorough soaking, ensuring that water does not remain standing around the roots for too long. Only water again when the compost has dried out completely.
Approaching Dormancy
By the end of May, a healthy lithop should appear plump and flat-topped, with no wrinkles. As the plant prepares to enter its dormant period, it conserves water and rebuilds energy reserves for the forthcoming flowering stage in late August or early September. It is important to avoid watering during dormancy, as this can prompt continued growth, causing the lithop to become excessively tall and potentially halt flowering, which also diminishes the plant’s appearance.
Flowering will take place between mid August and late October and will last approximately 5-7 days. At this point the lithops can have another soaking. The lithop should only need watering a few more times before winter dormancy. Watering should be stopped by end of October and the lithops placed in a frost free place until they show signs of splitting in early spring and the cycle starts again.
Growing tips for Lithops
Natural Movement in Soil
Lithops possess the remarkable ability to draw themselves down into the soil, positioning their tops level with the soil surface. This behaviour, observed in the wild, helps the plant avoid excessive exposure to the harsh sun. If this occurs in pots, there is no cause for concern. After a thorough soaking, lithops will absorb the water and expand naturally.
Splitting and Leaf Appearance
During the splitting phase, the old leaves of lithops may begin to look wrinkled. This is a normal part of the process and not an indication that the plant requires watering. It is advisable to wait until the old leaves have fully shrivelled before resuming regular watering.
Fertilising Lithops
Fertiliser may be applied at a low dose, with one application in the spring during the initial watering and another after the flowering period. Excessive fertiliser use should be avoided, as it can cause lithops to grow tall and become unsightly.
Seed pod harvesting
Should seed pods form following flowering, wait until the spring for the pods to turn brown before harvesting. Sprinkle the collected seeds on the surface of seed compost without covering them. Place the tray in a plastic bag and keep it in a warm location. The seeds should germinate within 7 to 14 days.