Lithops aucampiae (Living Stones)

Scientific Name

Lithops aucampiae L. Bolus

Common Names

Living Stones, Stone Plant

Synonyms

Lithops aucampiae var. aucampiae

Scientific Classification

Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Lithops

Description

Lithops aucampiae is a small, succulent plant up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall. With age it may form small clusters of up to 12, bodies (mostly 2 to 5). It is very variable, with brown-red bodies with intricate brown patterns. The bodies are 2 thick, fleshy leaves (each with a large leaf window to allow light into the underground part of the plant), separated by a crack from which a yellow flower appears. The flowers are daisy-like, bright yellow and up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter.

Photo via flickriver.com

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

These plants develop a new set of leaves every year, with new leaves emerging in the fall and growing through the winter and into the summer. In late summer, Lithops will go dormant and water should be severely restricted to prevent bursting leaves. The flowers appear near the end of summer or fall, first showing up as a small bud forcing its way between the leaves and growth will begin again. It's safe to water during this period. Heading into the winter, the leaves will still be growing, but you should stop watering, even as the older leaves shrivel up and encase the new growth. In the spring, it's safe to begin lightly watering again as the plant begins to grow again, heading toward their summer dormancy period and the emergence of new leaves in the fall.

Lithops are very slow growing, small plants, which makes them ideal as houseplants (once you get the hang of their watering schedule). Older plants form attractive clumps of "pebbles" in their pots, which are highly prized. In general, plants should only be repotted if there are cultural problems (soggy soil) or the plant has outgrown its dish container, which will only happen every several years.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Lithops.

Origin

Lithops aucampiae is found in areas of ironstone, with sandstone, chert and quartzite in Transvaal, South Africa. This is an area of summer rainfall.