About
Lithops aucampiae, Aucamp's living stone, is a clump-forming succulent with pairs of thick, reddish-ochre leaves with darker markings on the tips. Yellow, daisy-like flowers are produced in late summer and autumn. One of the most distinctive of the living stones for a sunny greenhouse bench or windowsill.
About the genus
Lithops, the living stones, are nearly stemless, succulent perennials forming bodies composed of a pair of very fleshy leaves, the flattish tips bearing translucent dots or patches. Daisy-like flowers emerge from the fissure between the leaves in late summer and autumn. Popular and fascinating succulents for a sunny greenhouse bench or windowsill.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectNorth-facing, East-facing, South-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Houseplants
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toTemp S Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrow under glass in a standard cactus compost with added leaf mould, in bright, filtered light, with good ventilation. When in growth water moderately and feed every two or three weeks with a balanced liquid feed. Keep almost dry in the winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 19 - 21°C in early spring or by offsets
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free