Succulent of the month: Lifelike stones

It is so well adapted to its climate and surroundings that it’s hard to spot until it sends out daisy-like flowers in autumn. How to grow Plants grown outdoors do best in gritty, sandy soil which drains well. Watering is the most important factor for Lithops. They go dormant in summer and should not be watered.

If the leaves start to shrivel, give just enough water to firm them up again. Start watering when the plants start to grow in early autumn – this is evident when the fissure between the leaves begins to separate for the emergence of the flowers. Watering must be stopped in winter so that the old leaves can dry up and give the new leaves space to develop.

Resume watering from late spring to early summer to encourage the growth of new leaves. However, be careful of watering too early as this prevents the old leaves from drying and the new leaves won’t develop properly. Garden uses In cooler and coastal areas Lithops can be grown in full sun, but in hotter inland regions they prefer morning sun and afternoon shade.