Lithops lesliei, often called living stones, are unique succulents native to Southern Africa, mimicking pebbles to avoid herbivores. They thrive in bright light and gritt
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
High
75% intensity
Requires bright, direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours daily. Insufficient light leads to etiolation.
Sparingly
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce drastically during dormancy.
Gritty, well-draining
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures (20-27°C) during the growing season and cooler (10-15°C) during dormancy.
Very Low
10% intensity
Fertilize sparingly with a diluted, low-nitrogen formula only during active growth.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water Lithops lesliei sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during dormancy periods.
Overwatering is the most common cause of rot and plant death, so err on the side of caution, especially during cooler months.
Pruning is generally not required for Lithops lesliei as they are slow-growing and maintain a compact form. Remove any dead or dried-out leaves only if they are completely detached and pose a risk of rot.
Do not cut healthy plant material.
Propagate Lithops lesliei primarily through seed. Sow seeds on the surface of a well-draining seedling mix and keep lightly moist in a warm, bright location. Division is rarely successful due to their growth habit.
Patience is key for successful seed germination.
Repot Lithops lesliei every 2-4 years, or when the pot becomes too small or the soil is depleted. Choose a well-draining, gritty potting mix.
Repot during the active growing season, preferably in spring, after the plant has finished its resting period.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lithops Lesliei (Lithops lesliei)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Lithops |
| Species | Lithops lesliei |
Similar in genus Lithops
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
