Scientific Name
Lithops gracilidelineata Dinter
Common Name(s)
Living Stones
Synonym(s)
Lithops gracilidelineata var. gracilidelineata
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Lithops
Origin
This species is endemic to Namibia.
Description
Lithops gracilidelineata is a dwarf succulent distinguished by its pale white color, fine reticulation of facial markings, and rugose top surface. The bodies consist of paired leaves and are round to mostly elliptic, with a flat surface, reaching up to 2 inches (5 cm) in height and 1.6 inches (4 cm) in width. The top surface is pale grayish-white, pearl grey, pale milky bluish, yellowish, or pinkish-grey with red-brown lines or dots.
In the fall, Lithops gracilidelineata produces yellow flowers that can reach up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) in diameter. The flowers emerge from the fissure between the leaves.
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. Lithops will go dormant in late summer, 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 grow, but you should stop watering, even as the older leaves shrivel 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 its summer dormancy period and the emergence of new leaves in the fall.
Lithops are very slow-growing, small plants, making 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.
Hybrids
Links
- Back to genus Lithops
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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