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Lithops

Living Stones, Pebble Plants

Lithops adds distinctive interest to NZ planting. Commonly known as Living Stones, Lithops are a small and unusual succulent. They grow with a rock like appearance to just 5 cm tall and the same wide, though will colonise larger areas with time. Bright yellow flowers are often borne from the centre of the bum during autumn. For NZ gardeners, it is an appealing choice for small succulent collections, bright windowsills, and miniature container displays. Give it bright light with some gentle sun and a very gritty mineral mix with excellent drainage to support its best growth.

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Suited to regions:Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type:Succulents
Height:5 cm
Spread:5 cm
Flowering time:Autumn
Tolerances:Extended dry periods
Garden uses:Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps, Patios, Pool areas
Garden styles:Architectural, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Mediterranean, Modern
Easy to grow?Yes
Maintenance requirementsLow
Growth rateSlow
Also known asLiving Stones, Pebble Plants
Sku18388

How to grow Lithops in NZ

Grow Lithops in bright light with some gentle sun, using a very gritty mineral mix with excellent drainage. Use a small pot with drainage holes and keep the leaf tops close to the mix surface. Protect from frost and prolonged rain. Water according to the growth cycle rather than a routine schedule. Keep dry while new leaves replace the old pair, and resume careful watering only when the old leaves have shrivelled.

Lithops care tips

Care for Lithops by matching moisture and feeding to its growing season. Follow the leaf replacement cycle closely and avoid watering while the old leaves are feeding the new pair. During active growth, water only after the mix has dried thoroughly. Keep the plant bright and sheltered from frost, with good ventilation. Avoid rich compost and heavy feeding. Do not remove old leaves prematurely or let water remain around the crown.

Lithops size, spacing, and growth rate

Lithops typically reaches about 5 cm tall and 5 cm wide under suitable conditions. For individual plants, allow about 5 cm between centres to give the foliage space without excessive crowding. It has a slow growth rate under suitable conditions. Final size varies with climate, soil, container size, and maintenance. Choose a container that supports the roots without excessive unused wet mix, and leave space around the display for airflow. Check the developing plant regularly and adjust nearby planting as its natural form becomes clearer.

Landscaping uses for Lithops

Use Lithops for small succulent collections, bright windowsills, and miniature container displays. Lithops is commonly included in rock gardens or maintained in a container. Position it where its distinctive features can be appreciated and allow the natural habit to guide your design. Combine it with plants that enjoy similar light, soil, and watering conditions for a practical, cohesive display. Repeated planting creates rhythm, while a single specimen provides a clear focal point. Choose a location that balances visual impact with room for healthy growth.

Why buy Lithops from The Plant Company?

Buy Lithops from The Plant Company, NZ's most trusted plant nursery. Our range makes it easy to choose plants that suit your garden, home, and local growing conditions. Benefit from practical growing advice, convenient online ordering, and careful packing for delivery throughout New Zealand. Whether you are planning small succulent collections or adding to an established collection, our team can help you make a confident choice. Explore the available options and bring your next planting project to life.

Questions and Answers

Have a question about Lithops (Living Stones)? We are here to help.

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