Living Stones Lithops
Lithops are small succulent plants that resemble pebbles and stones. They were discovered by John Burchell in 1811 who thought he was picking up an interesting looking stone but turned out to be a plant.
They can blend in so well that grazing animals looking for plants to obtain moisture dont see them. Even experts in the field have difficulty location lithops for study because of their stone-like camouflage.
In the wild, lithops inhabit the vast dry regions of South Africa. There is one species of lithops that depends on mist and fog to provide its primary source of moisture. Lithops are masters at storing water. The leaves are thick and can store enough water for the plants to survive for months without rain.
In periods of drought (almost all the time) they shrink below the soil level. Some researchers have concluded that living stones develop "contractile" roots, which they use to pull themselves down into the soil.
Lithops have intricate markings and come in the colors of gray, brown, rust, green and pink. A great choice for plant lovers looking for the unusual blend for their gardens. There are 145 varieties and 36 species of lithop flowering stones identified.
In cultivation, living stones require well-drained soil, much the same as cactus. They grow slowly, thrive in bright full sun, tolerate temperatures from cool to intense heat, and require very little water. |