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Living Stone Wikimedia Commons
Aizoaceae

Living Stone

Lithops spp.

Patience, camouflage, and hidden inner beauty.

Family
Aizoaceae
Genus
Lithops
Native to
southern Africa, Namibia, South Africa
Bloom season
Fall, Winter
Type
succulent perennial
Height
2–5 cm
Sunlight
full sun
Soil
very well-drained, gritty, sandy
Water
very low; minimal in dormancy
Hardiness
10–12
Lifespan
perennial; 40–50 years

Did you know

  • The plant body mimics surrounding pebbles so perfectly that it was first discovered by a botanist who sat on one.
  • Each pair of fused leaves has a translucent 'window' on top that channels light to photosynthetic cells inside.
  • A new pair of leaves grows from inside the old pair each year, consuming the old leaves for moisture.
  • There are over 35 species and 145 named varieties, each mimicking the specific stones in its habitat.
  • The daisy-like flower emerges from the crack between the two leaves and is often larger than the plant itself.

Color meanings

White

purity hidden in plain sight

Yellow

hidden joy and surprise

Uses

  • succulent collections
  • windowsill gardening
  • botanical curiosity
  • container gardens