Living stones (Lithops fulviceps)
Care, watering, light and tips for Living stones on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Aizoaceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 20 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Living stones
Lithops fulviceps, sometimes referred to as 'gulvitt stenblad' (yellow-white stone leaf in Swedish, though not a common English name), is a fascinating succulent plant belonging to the Aizoaceae family, native to South Africa. These 'living stones' perfectly mimic their environment, featuring two fleshy, fused leaves that form a conical or cylindrical body with a central fissure and unique patterns on their surface. They are ideal for succulent collections, desert terrariums, or as a peculiar accent in any bright space.
Native range
South Africa and Namibia
Care tips
It requires direct and intense sunlight for most of the day to maintain its compact shape and coloration. Watering should be extremely sparse and only when the older leaves have almost completely reabsorbed or are visibly wrinkled, typically in autumn and winter. Use a very well-draining substrate, composed mainly of inorganic materials such as pumice, akadama, or coarse sand. A common mistake to avoid is overwatering, which is the primary cause of rot and death in Lithops.
How to save a dying Living stones
- Warning signs
- Deep wrinkles or excessive wilting (underwatering), soft spots or rot at the base (overwatering).
- First aid
- If wrinkled, a light, gradual watering. If soft, stop watering and check roots. Ensure good ventilation.
- What kills it
- Overwatering is its main killer, especially outside its growing season. Also, lack of intense light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly. Advanced rot is difficult, but dehydration can be recovered with patience and proper watering.