quick plant care guide

Product Information

Information

  • Botanical Name: Lithops
  • Common Names: Pebble Plant

Lithops Living Stone: Nature’s Desert Camouflage

Lithops, commonly known as Living Stones, are fascinating succulents that blend seamlessly into rocky landscapes, mimicking the appearance of pebbles. Native to the arid regions of southern Africa, these tiny, stone-like plants have evolved to avoid herbivores by their unique camouflaging form. Lithops come in a variety of colors and patterns, with each “stone” composed of two fleshy leaves that store water and split to reveal new growth or daisy-like blooms. Ideal for sunny indoor spots, Lithops are low-maintenance and reward patience with their rare flowers, adding an intriguing, natural rock-garden aesthetic to any collection.

Complete Care Guide for Lithops (Living Stones)

Lithops, commonly known as “Living Stones,” are fascinating, small succulents native to arid regions of South Africa. With their stone-like appearance, they blend into their surroundings and are prized for their unique look. Lithops are relatively low-maintenance, but they require specific care to thrive. Follow this guide to care for your Lithops and help them stay healthy.


1. Light Requirements

  • Bright, Direct Light: Lithops thrive in bright, direct sunlight and need plenty of it to stay healthy. A south-facing window is ideal indoors, or place them outside in a sunny spot.
  • Gradual Light Adjustment: If moving them outdoors, gradually adjust them to full sun to avoid sunburn. Too little light can lead to stretching, which distorts their compact shape.

2. Watering

  • Minimal Watering: Lithops require very little water. During their active growing season (late spring to early fall), water only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure in Lithops care.
  • Seasonal Watering Needs:
    • Summer Dormancy (Mid-Summer): In hot weather, Lithops may go dormant. During this time, refrain from watering altogether.
    • Fall and Early Winter (Growing Season): Light watering can resume when new leaves emerge, but only when the soil is thoroughly dry. As new growth appears, the old leaves will begin to shrivel, and this is natural.
    • Winter and Spring (Rest Period): During winter, avoid watering entirely until the old leaves have completely withered away.

3. Temperature

  • Warm, Dry Conditions: Lithops prefer temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and tolerate slightly higher temperatures if kept dry.
  • Avoid Freezing Temperatures: Protect Lithops from temperatures below 40°F (4°C), as freezing can damage them.

4. Soil Requirements

  • Well-Draining, Sandy Soil: Use a cactus or succulent mix, ideally one that’s gritty and drains well. You can add extra sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage, mimicking the sandy soils of their native habitat.
  • pH Level: A neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0) is ideal for Lithops, and it can be achieved with cactus or succulent soil.

5. Fertilizing

  • Minimal Fertilizer Needs: Lithops generally do not require regular feeding, as they are adapted to nutrient-poor soils. However, you may use a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer once per year in the early growing season, if desired.
  • Avoid Fertilizing During Dormancy: Avoid feeding during winter dormancy, as it may disrupt their natural growth cycle.

6. Potting and Containers

  • Shallow Pots with Drainage: Lithops have shallow root systems, so choose a shallow pot with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
  • Top Dressing: Use a layer of decorative gravel or sand on the soil surface, which helps replicate their natural environment and prevents water from staying near the plant’s base.

7. Propagation

  • Seeds: Lithops are best propagated by seeds. Sow them in well-draining soil, keep them slightly moist until they germinate, and ensure they receive plenty of indirect light.
  • Patience Required: Lithops are slow growers, so germination and initial growth require patience. Mature Lithops can take several years to reach full size.

8. Common Issues and Solutions

  • Overwatering: Overwatering is the most common issue with Lithops and can cause them to rot. Ensure soil is completely dry between waterings, and avoid watering during dormancy periods.
  • Shriveling: Old leaves shriveling is normal as new growth appears, but if both old and new leaves look wrinkled, the plant may be too dry. Water sparingly if the soil is thoroughly dry and it’s during their growing season.
  • Sunburn: Direct, intense sunlight without gradual exposure can burn Lithops. If you notice browning or scorching, move the plant to a location with more filtered light.

9. Repotting

  • Repotting is Rarely Needed: Lithops have minimal root systems and grow very slowly, so repotting is only necessary every 3-5 years. Repot only when the soil needs refreshing or if the plant has outgrown its container.
  • Handle with Care: When repotting, be gentle to avoid damaging their sensitive roots. Allow the plant to dry out before repotting, and avoid watering immediately afterward.

Summary Care Tips

  • Light: Bright, direct light; avoid sudden exposure to intense sunlight.
  • Water: Minimal watering; water only when soil is dry and avoid watering in winter dormancy.
  • Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); protect from cold drafts or freezing temperatures.
  • Soil: Well-draining, sandy cactus mix with extra sand or grit.
  • Fertilizer: Minimal, dilute cactus fertilizer once per year in the early growing season.

Lithops are a rewarding, unique addition to any plant collection, resembling tiny stones and adding an element of intrigue to your indoor garden. By following these specific care instructions, your Living Stones can thrive and even bloom, bringing a truly remarkable and natural piece of the desert indoors.

FAQ

Certainly, each plant is delivered with a Nursery Pot only. You have the flexibility to choose your preferred pot and repot the plant upon arrival.

If your region experiences cold temperatures below 50°F, consider our "Winter Plant Shipping Protection" to safeguard your plant from cold-related damage.

Please take note of the following:

  • Winter Protection is essential for orders in areas with daytime temperatures below 50°F. If temperatures plummet below 0°F, we'll postpone shipping until conditions improve, and we'll notify you accordingly.

  • Orders lacking Winter Protection may be canceled if temperatures in your area dip below 50°F.

  • Without "Winter Plant Shipping Protection," we cannot offer refunds or replacements for cold-related plant damage. Your plant's well-being is our priority.

+
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Shipping within the USA:

At UrbanPlantNook, we provide nationwide shipping services. Utilizing specially designed plant packaging, we expedite the delivery of plants across the country. Through rigorous testing and refinement, we have developed a winning formula to ensure the highest quality plants upon delivery.

We’ve established reliable partnerships with USPS to facilitate the delivery of plants throughout North America. We are so confident in these partnerships that we guarantee your plants will arrive in excellent condition.

Order Processing:

We maintain year-round shipping, unaffected by local weather conditions. Typically, your order is processed within 2-5 business days from the date of your order placement. Once we’ve shipped your order, you will promptly receive an USPS Tracking Number to track the delivery progress in detail.

Shipping Fees:

Our shipping fees are straightforward. At checkout, you will be charged a flat rate of $9.99 for all orders, regardless of their size and location in the United Stated. However, we also have a fantastic offer: if your order total exceeds $50, you qualify for free shipping.

  • Flat Shipping Rate $9.99 for order under $49.99
  • Free shipping for order more than $50.00

Note: If your order is $50.00 or above, please choose the free shipping method during the checkout process.

Delivery Timeline:

Your parcel is expected to reach your doorstep within a span of 7-14 working days. It’s important to note that the precise delivery timeframe depends on the USPS Delivery Schedule, over which we have limited control. However, rest assured that as soon as your order is dispatched, you will receive a USPS Tracking Number for real-time monitoring.

Our Guarantee:

We take meticulous care in packaging our plants to ensure they arrive in pristine condition. Every plant comes with a 7-day guarantee, providing coverage in case it arrives damaged. If you encounter any issues with your order, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email.

We stand firmly behind our products and aim for your complete satisfaction. When you purchase plants from UrbanPlantNook, you can do so with confidence, knowing that your purchase is risk-free.

International Shipping:

As of now, we are only able to provide shipping services within the United States.

Absolutely, we offer a shipping guarantee. We carefully pack each plant in a sturdy carton box to ensure safe delivery. In the rare event of shipping damage, you have a 7-day window to request a refund or replacement. For more detail, please check our Return & Refund & Replacement Policy

We meticulously package our plants for safe delivery in custom-fitted, sturdy carton boxes. These boxes are designed to prevent any shifting during shipment, ensuring your plants arrive in excellent condition. For detailed packaging information, please refer to this link: Our Packing Process

Certainly, should you wish to make changes or cancel your order, kindly reach out within 12 hours of order confirmation. Once your order reaches the "Packing" status, it becomes unmodifiable. For further information, please refer to this page: Order Cancellation & Modification Policy

If you're unsure about your USDA Zone, you can find it by following this link: USDA Zone Map

Planting Accessories

Elevate your gardening experience with our exquisite collection of planting accessories. Whether you're a seasoned horticulturist or just starting your journey into the world of plants, our range of accessories is designed to add a touch of sophistication to your gardening endeavors.

Winter Protection

Winter Protection is essential for orders in areas with daytime temperatures below 50°F. If temperatures plummet below 0°F, we'll postpone shipping until conditions improve, and we'll notify you accordingly.

Orders lacking Winter Protection may be canceled if temperatures in your area dip below 50°F.

Without "Winter Plant Shipping Protection," we cannot offer refunds or replacements for cold-related plant damage. Your plant's well-being is our priority.

+
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Lithops Living Stone

$21.99

   Free Shipping on Order more than $50
   We offer replacement or a refund for damaged plant
   Only ship the healthy plants to you
   Over 400+ plants you can choose for your home

add a pot for your plant

+
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
$12.99$16.99
+
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
$22.99$56.99

   Free Shipping on Order more than $50
   We offer replacement or a refund for damaged plant
   Only ship the healthy plants to you
   Over 400+ plants you can choose for your home

add a pot for your plant

+
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
$12.99$16.99
+
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
$22.99$56.99

quick plant care guide

Product Information

Information

  • Botanical Name: Lithops
  • Common Names: Pebble Plant

Lithops Living Stone: Nature’s Desert Camouflage

Lithops, commonly known as Living Stones, are fascinating succulents that blend seamlessly into rocky landscapes, mimicking the appearance of pebbles. Native to the arid regions of southern Africa, these tiny, stone-like plants have evolved to avoid herbivores by their unique camouflaging form. Lithops come in a variety of colors and patterns, with each “stone” composed of two fleshy leaves that store water and split to reveal new growth or daisy-like blooms. Ideal for sunny indoor spots, Lithops are low-maintenance and reward patience with their rare flowers, adding an intriguing, natural rock-garden aesthetic to any collection.

Complete Care Guide for Lithops (Living Stones)

Lithops, commonly known as “Living Stones,” are fascinating, small succulents native to arid regions of South Africa. With their stone-like appearance, they blend into their surroundings and are prized for their unique look. Lithops are relatively low-maintenance, but they require specific care to thrive. Follow this guide to care for your Lithops and help them stay healthy.


1. Light Requirements

  • Bright, Direct Light: Lithops thrive in bright, direct sunlight and need plenty of it to stay healthy. A south-facing window is ideal indoors, or place them outside in a sunny spot.
  • Gradual Light Adjustment: If moving them outdoors, gradually adjust them to full sun to avoid sunburn. Too little light can lead to stretching, which distorts their compact shape.

2. Watering

  • Minimal Watering: Lithops require very little water. During their active growing season (late spring to early fall), water only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering is the most common cause of failure in Lithops care.
  • Seasonal Watering Needs:
    • Summer Dormancy (Mid-Summer): In hot weather, Lithops may go dormant. During this time, refrain from watering altogether.
    • Fall and Early Winter (Growing Season): Light watering can resume when new leaves emerge, but only when the soil is thoroughly dry. As new growth appears, the old leaves will begin to shrivel, and this is natural.
    • Winter and Spring (Rest Period): During winter, avoid watering entirely until the old leaves have completely withered away.

3. Temperature

  • Warm, Dry Conditions: Lithops prefer temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C) and tolerate slightly higher temperatures if kept dry.
  • Avoid Freezing Temperatures: Protect Lithops from temperatures below 40°F (4°C), as freezing can damage them.

4. Soil Requirements

  • Well-Draining, Sandy Soil: Use a cactus or succulent mix, ideally one that’s gritty and drains well. You can add extra sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage, mimicking the sandy soils of their native habitat.
  • pH Level: A neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0) is ideal for Lithops, and it can be achieved with cactus or succulent soil.

5. Fertilizing

  • Minimal Fertilizer Needs: Lithops generally do not require regular feeding, as they are adapted to nutrient-poor soils. However, you may use a diluted cactus or succulent fertilizer once per year in the early growing season, if desired.
  • Avoid Fertilizing During Dormancy: Avoid feeding during winter dormancy, as it may disrupt their natural growth cycle.

6. Potting and Containers

  • Shallow Pots with Drainage: Lithops have shallow root systems, so choose a shallow pot with good drainage to prevent waterlogging.
  • Top Dressing: Use a layer of decorative gravel or sand on the soil surface, which helps replicate their natural environment and prevents water from staying near the plant’s base.

7. Propagation

  • Seeds: Lithops are best propagated by seeds. Sow them in well-draining soil, keep them slightly moist until they germinate, and ensure they receive plenty of indirect light.
  • Patience Required: Lithops are slow growers, so germination and initial growth require patience. Mature Lithops can take several years to reach full size.

8. Common Issues and Solutions

  • Overwatering: Overwatering is the most common issue with Lithops and can cause them to rot. Ensure soil is completely dry between waterings, and avoid watering during dormancy periods.
  • Shriveling: Old leaves shriveling is normal as new growth appears, but if both old and new leaves look wrinkled, the plant may be too dry. Water sparingly if the soil is thoroughly dry and it’s during their growing season.
  • Sunburn: Direct, intense sunlight without gradual exposure can burn Lithops. If you notice browning or scorching, move the plant to a location with more filtered light.

9. Repotting

  • Repotting is Rarely Needed: Lithops have minimal root systems and grow very slowly, so repotting is only necessary every 3-5 years. Repot only when the soil needs refreshing or if the plant has outgrown its container.
  • Handle with Care: When repotting, be gentle to avoid damaging their sensitive roots. Allow the plant to dry out before repotting, and avoid watering immediately afterward.

Summary Care Tips

  • Light: Bright, direct light; avoid sudden exposure to intense sunlight.
  • Water: Minimal watering; water only when soil is dry and avoid watering in winter dormancy.
  • Temperature: 65-80°F (18-27°C); protect from cold drafts or freezing temperatures.
  • Soil: Well-draining, sandy cactus mix with extra sand or grit.
  • Fertilizer: Minimal, dilute cactus fertilizer once per year in the early growing season.

Lithops are a rewarding, unique addition to any plant collection, resembling tiny stones and adding an element of intrigue to your indoor garden. By following these specific care instructions, your Living Stones can thrive and even bloom, bringing a truly remarkable and natural piece of the desert indoors.

Planting Accessories

Elevate your gardening experience with our exquisite collection of planting accessories. Whether you're a seasoned horticulturist or just starting your journey into the world of plants, our range of accessories is designed to add a touch of sophistication to your gardening endeavors.

Check more

Winter Protection

Winter Protection is essential for orders in areas with daytime temperatures below 50°F. If temperatures plummet below 0°F, we'll postpone shipping until conditions improve, and we'll notify you accordingly.

Orders lacking Winter Protection may be canceled if temperatures in your area dip below 50°F.

Without "Winter Plant Shipping Protection," we cannot offer refunds or replacements for cold-related plant damage. Your plant's well-being is our priority.

FAQ

Certainly, each plant is delivered with a Nursery Pot only. You have the flexibility to choose your preferred pot and repot the plant upon arrival.

If your region experiences cold temperatures below 50°F, consider our "Winter Plant Shipping Protection" to safeguard your plant from cold-related damage.

Please take note of the following:

  • Winter Protection is essential for orders in areas with daytime temperatures below 50°F. If temperatures plummet below 0°F, we'll postpone shipping until conditions improve, and we'll notify you accordingly.

  • Orders lacking Winter Protection may be canceled if temperatures in your area dip below 50°F.

  • Without "Winter Plant Shipping Protection," we cannot offer refunds or replacements for cold-related plant damage. Your plant's well-being is our priority.

+
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Shipping within the USA:

At UrbanPlantNook, we provide nationwide shipping services. Utilizing specially designed plant packaging, we expedite the delivery of plants across the country. Through rigorous testing and refinement, we have developed a winning formula to ensure the highest quality plants upon delivery.

We’ve established reliable partnerships with USPS to facilitate the delivery of plants throughout North America. We are so confident in these partnerships that we guarantee your plants will arrive in excellent condition.

Order Processing:

We maintain year-round shipping, unaffected by local weather conditions. Typically, your order is processed within 2-5 business days from the date of your order placement. Once we’ve shipped your order, you will promptly receive an USPS Tracking Number to track the delivery progress in detail.

Shipping Fees:

Our shipping fees are straightforward. At checkout, you will be charged a flat rate of $9.99 for all orders, regardless of their size and location in the United Stated. However, we also have a fantastic offer: if your order total exceeds $50, you qualify for free shipping.

  • Flat Shipping Rate $9.99 for order under $49.99
  • Free shipping for order more than $50.00

Note: If your order is $199.00 or above, please choose the free shipping method during the checkout process.

Delivery Timeline:

Your parcel is expected to reach your doorstep within a span of 7-14 working days. It’s important to note that the precise delivery timeframe depends on the USPS Delivery Schedule, over which we have limited control. However, rest assured that as soon as your order is dispatched, you will receive a USPS Tracking Number for real-time monitoring.

Our Guarantee:

We take meticulous care in packaging our plants to ensure they arrive in pristine condition. Every plant comes with a 7-day guarantee, providing coverage in case it arrives damaged. If you encounter any issues with your order, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us via email.

We stand firmly behind our products and aim for your complete satisfaction. When you purchase plants from UrbanPlantNook, you can do so with confidence, knowing that your purchase is risk-free.

International Shipping:

As of now, we are only able to provide shipping services within the United States.

Absolutely, we offer a shipping guarantee. We carefully pack each plant in a sturdy carton box to ensure safe delivery. In the rare event of shipping damage, you have a 7-day window to request a refund or replacement. For more detail, please check our Return & Refund & Replacement Policy

We meticulously package our plants for safe delivery in custom-fitted, sturdy carton boxes. These boxes are designed to prevent any shifting during shipment, ensuring your plants arrive in excellent condition. For detailed packaging information, please refer to this link: Our Packing Process

Certainly, should you wish to make changes or cancel your order, kindly reach out within 12 hours of order confirmation. Once your order reaches the "Packing" status, it becomes unmodifiable. For further information, please refer to this page: Order Cancellation & Modification Policy

If you're unsure about your USDA Zone, you can find it by following this link: USDA Zone Map

You May also like

Lithops Living Stone
$21.99 Select options
This site uses cookies to offer you a better browsing experience. By browsing this website, you agree to our use of cookies.