Looking for a truly unique, beginner-friendly plant that will bring conversation and cheer to your indoor garden? Look no further than Living stones (Lithops salicola), the quirky little succulents that look just like pebbles, perfect for small spaces and easy-care households. Beloved for their uncanny stone-like appearance and minimal care needs, Living stones are ideal for both new plant parents and seasoned collectors.
Light Requirements
Living stones thrive in bright, indirect light—think windowsills or shelves a few feet back from south or east-facing windows. While they appreciate some morning sun, harsh midday rays can scorch them, so avoid intense direct sunlight. Insufficient light causes them to stretch out and lose their charming pebble shape.
Watering Schedule
Water very sparingly! Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings—this can mean only a few times during spring and autumn when they grow. Overwatering is the biggest threat: shriveled leaves suggest they’re thirsty, but mushy or split leaves signal too much water. Skip the humidifier, as these plants prefer dry air.
Humidity & Temperature
Living stones like average household humidity and temps between 65–80°F (18–27°C). They dislike cold drafts and frost, so keep them away from open windows in winter—never let them drop below 50°F (10°C). Their natural habitat is dry and warm, so mimic those conditions for best results.
Soil & Potting
Use a fast-draining cactus or succulent mix—better yet, add extra sand or perlite. Living stones dislike staying wet. Repot only every 3–5 years or if their pot becomes crowded, as they prefer being snug and undisturbed.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing isn’t usually necessary. If you wish, a weak cactus fertilizer once a year during spring, when new growth appears, is enough. Avoid fertilizing in dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Common issues include yellowing or splitting leaves (usually from overwatering), pests like mealybugs, or stretching (etiolation) if light is too low. Let the soil fully dry before watering, and gently wipe pests with alcohol-dipped swabs. Move to a brighter spot if your plant stretches upward.
Extra Tips
Let Living stones shine in quirky, shallow pots or grouped with other succulents for a playful, natural look. Try contrasting their “stone” shapes with round-leafed succulents like Haworthia. Fun fact: Living stones bloom with beautiful daisy-like flowers in late summer or autumn—another delightful surprise!
