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Living rock succulent is a unique type of succulent. It has a resemblance to a rock split into two. Hence, this is why it is named as such. Although they are a native plant in Southern Africa, you can still purchase them in various nurseries and garden centers. They are extremely small plants and they grow very slowly. In fact, it will take years before it can form new leaves and fill its pots.
Living rock succulents have a unique structure. It is composed of two leaves joined together by its stem and roots. They have enormously thick leaves and the extent of its blending will likely depend on the type of species that you have. There are species that only have a single leaf and there is no indication of any leaf merging. On the other hand, there are also some species that are extremely lobed, and it even reaches the level of the soil.
If you are a collector of unusual plants, then this could be a fantastic addition to your collection. Keep in mind that you need to be careful in watering them. With excessive water, the plant can die from underneath the ground or its leaves will explode. However, if you keep them in good condition, then they will bloom. Most likely its flowers will appear from mid to late summer. The flowers of living rock succulents are in white and yellow and they have a resemblance of a daisy. They will come out between the leaves.
Living stones can grow well in dense, sandy soil with not much water. They can also endure the hot temperature. If you want to grow these living rock succulents in your home, then here is a little bit of information about these plants.
Information on Living Rock Succulents
Living stones have a plethora of interesting names including flowering stones, mimicry plants, pebble plants, etc. They all pertain to this plant which has an unusual shape and growth pattern. These plants are typically made up of only two leaves. They are too small and its quite rare to see them grow more than one inch above its soil level.
The thick leaves of living stones look like a pair of stones combined together. Most parts of the plant are buried underground including its stem and roots.
What Are the Different Varieties of Living Rock Succulents?
What Causes Stress to Succulents?
Living rock succulents belong to the Mesembryanthemum group of plants. Within this group, there are numerous genera that include Lithops and Conophytum. Consequently, within these two genres, there are lots of species. Oftentimes, it is very hard to identify them, except if you are a biologist or a diehard fanatic.
Since the growing requirements of most living rock succulents are the same, so it’s better for you to choose your favorite. But you have to remember that each of these species varies in their cycles. The period that they become inactive and the time that they will bloom may vary. Hence, you have to observe your plants closely so that you can find some indications.
How to Grow Living Rock Succulents?
Water
It is important to know that every living rock succulent has its specific yearly cycle that must be followed meticulously. During the summer, when they are inactive, you can gently water them, most especially when the leaves have started to dry up. But generally, plants must not be watered during their dormancy period which is in summer or winter.
Living rock succulents love full sunlight, so as much as possible you have to provide them with more light. If they can’t get enough light, then their leaves will be stretched and the pattern on the leaves will disappear.
These plants can thrive in warm temperatures during the summer and cold temperatures during the winter months. They can also survive on the temperature within the household.
Living rock succulents can endure in arduous situations. Hence, applying fertilizer may not be essential.
The ideal soil for this plant is a cactus mix, however, you could also use fast-draining potting soil combined with sand.
Living rock succulents are small and they grow very slowly, making them one of the best houseplants. As they get older, they will form beautiful masses of pebbles that look so adorable. Typically, these plants must only be repotted when problems occur such as soggy soil or when they have grown large enough and they can’t fit into their container anymore. But it can take several years before this will happen.
Propagation
There are two ways of propagating living rock succulents, either by seeds or by division. Typically, if you grow them by seeds, then it will probably take two to three years before they can mature and start to bloom.
Other Tips for Growing Living Rock Succulents
Each year, these plants can grow a new set of leaves. Most likely, they will start to appear in the fall and continue to grow throughout the winter and the summer. They will become inactive during the late summer, hence, during this time, you should avoid watering them to avoid erupting its leaves.
Living stones will start to bloom at the end of summer or fall. At first, you will see small buds emerging between the leaves and its development will begin. It’s fine to water them during this time.
Their leaves will continue to develop up to the winter season. You have to stop watering them even if the matured leaves have dry up and enclose the new growth. You can start watering them gently during springtime when the plant starts to develop again. When summer comes, they will become dormant again and new leaves will start to appear in the fall.
Be cautious of any typical pests such as scale since they can damage the plant’s fragile foliage. To solve this problem, you need a good pesticide, but only choose the one that is environmentally friendly.
At Eden Succulents, you can find different guides and tips in growing and caring for succulents. Whether you are a beginner or an expert we want to give you a wonderful experience in growing your succulents. If you need any advice, then let us know in the comments below.
Pack of 8 Live Mini Exotic Lithops Plant Seedlings
Living Stone Plant
- Lithops, (commonly called “flowering stones” or “living stones”)
- The plants blend in among the stones as a means of protection
