Lithops (living stones), are small, stemless succulent plants that resemble stones to avoid being grazed by animals in their native habitat.
They originate from some of the driest regions in South Africa, therefore need very little water – some of them rely only on mist and fog for moisture.
 
Lithops thrive in a very free-draining compost.
We recommend Soil.Ninja Cacti & Succulent Blend for re-potting.
 
Place in a bright, sunny, dry spot such as a south- or east-facing windowsill.
Water very sparingly – much less than other succulents. Don't water at all from October until after the old pair of leaves has completely withered away, often not until the following May. Then avoid watering again during the dormant period in summer.
You may need to remove your lithops from your windowsill in winter if temperatures drop significantly.
 
Lithops develop new leaves each year, which emerge from the fissure between the two older leaves, which then gradually shrivel away. The watering regime is based around the growth of these new leaves. If you water too soon after the new leaves have emerged, the old leaves might not shrivel away properly.
 
Unlike other succulents, lithops start into growth in autumn. In the wild, this coincides with seasonal rains, so it's a good idea to give your lithops a good watering during this time (early September).
It's around this time that flowers start to appear – look out for the fissure opening and a bud growing out.
Lithops continue growing through winter and into spring, with the new pair of leaves growing inside the old. However it's important to not water in winter. The new pair of leaves actually grows by drawing water from the old pair, so the soil should be very dry.
 
In spring, the old leaves shrivel away and the new leaves are exposed. Start watering again when the old pair of leaves has completely shrivelled. Water a little at a time, allowing the compost to dry out between waterings.
 
Lithops go dormant in summer, typically during the most extreme heat of their native southern African environment. Avoid watering them during this time, then give them a good drink in early September, when growth starts again.