Also known as Living Rock · Split Rock · Stone Plant
Ostrichfoot (Pleiospilos compactus) is a compact succulent forming pairs of thick, triangular leaves resembling pebbles, native to South Africa.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright
75% intensity
Prefers full sun to partial shade. Intense direct sun can scorch leaves.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce drastically in winter.
Well-draining, Gritty
50% intensity
Moderate to Warm
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures during growth. Protect from frost.
Minimal
25% intensity
Diluted succulent fertilizer sparingly during the growing season.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the soil is completely dry. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy to prevent root rot. Overwatering is the most common cause of death for Pleiospilos species.
Ensure excellent drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning is generally not required for Pleiospilos compactus. Remove any dead or dried leaves at the base of the plant to maintain a tidy appearance and prevent potential pest issues. Avoid cutting into healthy tissue.
Propagate mainly through offsets (pups) that appear at the base of the parent plant. Carefully separate these offsets when they have developed their own root system.
Allow the cut surface to callus over before planting in well-draining soil.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its container. Use a gritty, fast-draining potting mix specifically formulated for succulents. Repot in spring before active growth begins.
Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ostrichfoot Quaggafig (Pleiospilos compactus)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Pleiospilos |
| Species | Pleiospilos compactus |
Similar in genus Pleiospilos
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
