About
Lithops pseudotruncatella, the truncate living stone, is a clump-forming succulent with paired, pale-buff leaves veined and mottled with olive-brown on the tips. Yellow flowers 4 cm across open in late summer and autumn. A beautiful and distinctive living stone 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
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Houseplants
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toS.W.Africa- Namibia
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