Living Stone (Lithops pseudotruncatella)

Living Stone

Lithops pseudotruncatella

It mimics desert pebbles to hide from herbivores, a master of camouflage. Succulent perennial; common name: living stone.

Full sun
0.2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial sun during extreme midday summer heat
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Watering Water only during active growing periods (autumn and spring); avoid watering during summer dormancy and winter
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Temperature Thrives in 15–25°C; tolerate a minimum of 5°C during winter dormancy, avoid frost exposure
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Paired fleshy leaves fused at the base, forming a pebble-like body with a central fissure
  • Flower: Daisy-like white or pale yellow blooms emerging from the central fissure
  • Stem: Reduced to nearly absent; leaves form the main visible structure
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Care Guide

Watering

Water sparingly when the central fissure opens; let soil dry completely between waterings

Fertilization

Diluted balanced succulent feed once every 2 months. Use only diluted, low-nitrogen fertilizer to avoid leaf damage

Eggshell powder top dressing:Grind clean eggshells to a fine powder; dust lightly on the soil surface to improve drainage and add calcium without risking over-fertilization
Pruning
  • Remove dried outer leaf layers as new leaves emerge to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Trim spent flower stalks after blooming to redirect energy to leaf growth
  • Avoid cutting into the fleshy leaf pairs to prevent permanent damage and infection
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported toxic reactions

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: Symbolizes resilience and adaptation to harsh, arid environments

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container displays, and sunny indoor windowsills