The Dorothea Plant, formally known as Lithops dorotheae, is a succulent known as a “living stone.” These plants mimic rocks and pebbles in their natural habitat, making them a unique succulent.
Understanding the Dorothea Plant
Lithops dorotheae is a small, stemless perennial succulent native to arid South Africa. It grows on fine-grained quartz and feldspar rock, blending with its surroundings to evade herbivores. The plant consists of two fleshy, fused leaves, forming a body with a distinct fissure across the top. Its coloration is diverse, featuring yellowish-brown bodies with reddish-brown windows, often adorned with bold red lines, dots, or star-like patterns. Yellow, medium to large flowers emerge from the fissure in mid-autumn.
Caring for Dorothea Plants
Light
Dorothea plants need abundant light to thrive and maintain vibrant coloration. They flourish in bright, direct sunlight for at least four to five hours daily, ideally from a sunny window or supplemental grow lights if indoors. Insufficient light causes etiolation, making the plant elongated and losing its compact shape. While strong light is needed, protect plants from intense afternoon sun to prevent sunburn.
Soil
A porous, well-draining soil mix is important for Lithops dorotheae. Their native habitat has mineral-rich, gritty substrates, and replicating this environment helps prevent root rot. A good mix includes inorganic materials like coarse sand, perlite, pumice, or decomposed granite for rapid drainage. Avoid standard potting soil, or amend it heavily, as it retains too much moisture. Pots need drainage holes and should be deep enough (3 to 5 inches) for its taproot system.
Water
Watering Lithops dorotheae requires attention. These drought-tolerant succulents store water in their leaves. Water infrequently, allowing the soil to dry completely between sessions. Their growth cycle dictates frequency: water sparingly during spring and autumn growth, but reduce or cease watering during summer dormancy and winter. When watering, thoroughly soak the soil, then allow it to dry fully before the next application.
Temperature
Dorothea plants prefer warm, dry conditions, with temperatures between 18-24°C (65-75°F). They tolerate cooler temperatures down to 10°C (50°F) but need protection from freezing conditions. In hot summer temperatures above 30°C (86°F), Lithops dorotheae may enter dormancy, requiring reduced watering. Adequate air circulation is also beneficial, especially in warmer or humid environments.
Propagating Dorothea Plants
Propagating Lithops dorotheae is mainly done through seeds, though division of multi-headed plants is possible. For seeds, sow them in a well-draining, gritty medium, such as a mix of coarse sand, perlite, and a small amount of peat moss or coco coir. Sprinkle tiny seeds evenly over the surface, then lightly cover with fine sand or crushed rock.
Maintain consistent moisture with a gentle mist, and provide bright, indirect light at 21-27°C (70-80°F) for germination. Germination takes several weeks to months.
Once seedlings emerge, gradually reduce humidity and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots after about a year.
Common Issues with Dorothea Plants
Improper watering causes most problems for Lithops dorotheae. Overwatering leads to root rot or splitting leaves. Mushy or burst leaves indicate excessive moisture; cease watering until recovery.
Wrinkled or shriveled leaves signal underwatering; a light application of water usually restores them. Insufficient light causes etiolation, where the plant stretches and becomes pale, weakening it. Provide bright, direct sunlight to prevent this.
While generally resistant, Lithops dorotheae may occasionally get pests like mealybugs or aphids, which can be managed with insecticidal treatments.