Lithops lesliei, often called “living stones,” are unique succulents known for their stone-like appearance and unusual growth patterns. These plants mimic the pebbles and rocks of their native South African habitats, a camouflage mechanism that helps them avoid predation. Growing Lithops lesliei requires specific care to thrive, but offers a rewarding experience. Their adaptation to arid environments makes them a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts.
Identifying Lithops lesliei
Recognizing Lithops lesliei involves identifying its specific physical characteristics. These plants are typically larger and more rounded than other Lithops species, with bodies up to 4 cm (1.5 inches) thick. The coloration of Lithops lesliei is quite variable, ranging from pinkish-gray to olive green, sometimes featuring rust-colored spots or a deep rusty brown. This variability allows them to blend seamlessly with their natural rocky surroundings.
A defining feature is the translucent “windows” on the top surface of the leaves, which are often dark green or greyish-brown and can have unique mesh-like patterns or irregular markings. These window patterns allow light to penetrate deeper into the plant body, aiding in photosynthesis. Lithops lesliei produces a single, daisy-like flower that emerges from the fissure between the two leaves. These flowers are typically golden yellow, though some varieties can produce white blooms, and they usually appear in the autumn.
Essential Care Requirements
Correct environmental conditions are fundamental for Lithops lesliei health. These plants require specific light, soil, and atmospheric conditions to flourish.
Light
Requires abundant, direct sunlight to maintain its compact form and vibrant coloration. Placing them in a south-facing window is ideal, providing at least four to six hours of direct sun exposure daily. While intense light is needed, caution is advisable during extreme summer heat, as excessive direct sun can scorch the plant. Insufficient light can lead to etiolation, where the plant stretches and loses its characteristic stone-like shape.
Soil
The choice of soil is important for Lithops lesliei, as they are highly susceptible to rot in moisture-retentive mediums. A well-draining, gritty soil mix is necessary to mimic their natural habitat. A suitable blend often includes a high proportion of inorganic materials such as pumice, perlite, coarse sand, or crushed gravel, with only a minimal amount of organic matter. Standard potting soil retains too much moisture, leading to root rot.
Temperature and Airflow
Thrives in warm temperatures during active growth, generally between 18-27°C (65-80°F). They can tolerate cooler temperatures, but ideally not below 10°C (50°F). Good air circulation is also important. Adequate airflow helps dry soil quickly after watering and prevents fungal issues.
Mastering the Unique Growth Cycle and Watering
Care for Lithops lesliei centers on its unique annual growth cycle and precise watering regimen. Adhering to this cycle is important, as improper watering, especially during dormancy, often causes fatal rot.
Spring: New Growth and Minimal Water
In late winter and early spring, old leaves split, and new leaves emerge. During this phase, the new leaves absorb water and nutrients from the old leaves, causing the outer leaves to shrivel and dry. Watering should be minimal to non-existent. Withhold water until old leaves are completely shriveled, ensuring new leaves develop by drawing moisture from them.
Summer: Dormancy and No Water
As summer approaches, Lithops lesliei enters dormancy, adapting to hot, dry conditions. During summer dormancy, watering should cease. Providing water can interrupt their resting period and lead to rot. Some larger Lithops species, including L. lesliei, may tolerate a small amount of water if showing extreme shriveling during prolonged heat, but sparingly and preferably in the evening.
Autumn: Flowering and Moderate Water
Autumn marks the active growth phase, signaled by a single, daisy-like flower from the central fissure. This is the appropriate time to water, but sparingly. Water only when the plant shows subtle signs of thirst, such as slight wrinkling on the top surface. After watering, allow the soil to dry out completely before considering another application, typically every few weeks.
Winter: Splitting and No Water
Throughout winter, Lithops lesliei continues internal development as new leaves form within existing ones. During this splitting phase, the plant relies on moisture stored in its old leaves to nourish the developing new pair. Provide no water during winter. Introducing water can disrupt the natural absorption process, causing old leaves to swell and potentially leading to rot or malformed new growth.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
Cultivating Lithops lesliei can present a few common challenges, but understanding their causes allows for effective troubleshooting. Most issues stem from deviations in care, particularly related to light and watering.
Stretching or Etiolation
Stretching or etiolation, where the plant loses its compact shape and elongates, is caused by insufficient light. To correct this, gradually increase the plant’s exposure to bright, direct sunlight, ensuring it receives at least four to six hours daily.
Rot
Rot, a mushy or collapsing plant, results from overwatering, especially during dormant or splitting periods. While often fatal, if caught early, the plant can sometimes be saved by removing it from wet soil, inspecting for healthy roots, and repotting in dry, gritty mix. Strict adherence to the seasonal watering schedule is the most effective preventative measure against rot.
Shriveling or Wrinkling
Shriveling or wrinkling can indicate thirst during active growth, but is also natural during the splitting phase. Distinguish between healthy shriveling of old leaves as new ones emerge (no water needed) and unhealthy shriveling of the main body during watering seasons (may indicate thirst). If genuinely thirsty during active growth, water sparingly.
Lack of Flowering
Lack of flowering often points to inadequate light or improper watering. Ensuring abundant direct sunlight and consistent seasonal watering will encourage autumn blooming.