Bromfield's living stone Lithops bromfieldii

Water

Living Stones need minimal watering and are susceptible to overwatering. During summer, water them every two to three weeks with just enough water to moisten the soil, roughly about 1/4 cup per plant. In winter, withhold water entirely as the plant goes into dormancy. It's essential to let the soil dry out completely between watering sessions. Do not water if the plant is splitting or it has recently shed its old leaves, as this is when it is most vulnerable to rot.

Light

Living Stones prefer bright, indirect sunlight. Placing them in a south-facing window where they receive plenty of light but are protected from the harshest direct rays is ideal. They can handle some direct sunlight, especially in the morning, but too much direct sun can scorch their leaves.

Temperature

Living Stones thrive in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F, which are typical room temperatures. They can survive temperatures as low as 40°F but should not be exposed to frost. Ideal conditions mimic their native desert habitat, which has significant temperature fluctuations between night and day.

Pruning

Living Stones do not typically require pruning. They naturally shed their old leaves once a year, making room for new growth. The best time to remove any dead leaves is after the new set has fully developed. Be cautious not to damage new growth when removing the old leaves.

Cleaning

Not needed

Soil

Living stones (Lithops bromfieldii) thrive in a fast-draining soil mix composed of one part potting soil to four parts coarse sand or perlite. The preferred pH level for this succulent is slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 and 7.2. Ensure that the soil allows air to reach the roots to prevent rot.

Repotting

Living stones should be repotted every few years or when they outgrow their containers. The best time to repot Living stones is during the plant's dormant period, which is typically in late summer to early fall.

Humidity & Misting

Living stones prefer low humidity levels and are comfortable in the dry conditions often found in home environments. Avoid high humidity levels to reduce the risk of fungal infections and rot.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place Living stones in bright, indirect light indoors.

• Outdoor

  Grow Living stones outdoor in bright shade or morning sun.

• Hardiness zone

  10-11 USDA

Life cycle

Lithops bromfieldii, commonly known as Living Stones, starts its life cycle as a seed, which germinates in warm, moist substrate, often following rain showers in its native habitat. Upon sprouting, the seedling slowly develops its characteristic pair of fleshy leaves, which are designed to store water and adapted to high-light, arid conditions. As the plant matures, these leaves will annually wither and be replaced by a new pair, emerging from the fissure between the existing leaves. Once mature, which can take several years, Lithops bromfieldii blooms in autumn, producing daisy-like flowers that open in the afternoon and close at night. After pollination, seeds are set within a fruit capsule that opens when wet, completing the reproductive cycle. The plant can live for many years, perpetuating its life cycle through flowering and seed production, with individual leaves having a lifespan of about a year before being replaced.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late summer to fall

• The most popular method for propagating Lithops, also known as living stones, is through seeds. The ideal time to sow seeds is in the fall or spring when temperatures are mild. To propagate, spread the tiny seeds evenly over a well-draining soil mix and lightly cover with a fine layer of sand or the same soil mix. The container should then be kept in a warm place with plenty of light but not direct sunlight. It is crucial to maintain a consistent moisture level, lightly misting the soil with water, but ensuring that it isn't soggy. Germination usually occurs within a few weeks to a month, after which the seedlings should be carefully watered until they are strong enough to be transplanted. This method requires patience as Lithops grow slowly and can take several years to reach maturity.