Origin
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn, commonly known as the Conophytum comptonii, is a succulent plant native to the semi-arid regions of the Namib desert in Namibia and Namaqualand in South Africa.
Common Names
The Conophytum comptonii is commonly known as the living stones, split rocks, pebble plants, and mimicry plant. It also has local names in the regions where it is found, such as "kwaggavygie" in Afrikaans and "gobab" in Nama.
Uses
The Conophytum comptonii is grown as an ornamental plant due to its unique appearance of being a living stone. It is a popular plant among succulent collectors and is typically grown in containers with well-draining soils. The plant requires minimal watering and is suitable for those with limited gardening skills. It is also considered a natural air purifier for indoor spaces.
General Appearance
The Conophytum comptonii is a small, low-growing, and slow-growing plant that forms clumps. It has a unique appearance of being a living stone that mimics the color and texture of the surrounding environment, which serves as a defense against predators. The plant has two fleshy leaves that are fused together at the base and a small slit at the top through which the flower arises. The flowers are yellow and appear from the center of the leaves in autumn.
Light Requirements
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn requires moderate to bright sunlight to grow properly. It is best suited for growing in areas that receive light for at least 6 hours a day. Direct sunlight can be harsh and can lead to discoloration of leaves or even sunburn. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a location where it can receive bright, indirect light, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F) during the day and 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at night. It is essential to protect the plant from frost as it cannot survive in extreme cold temperatures. If you live in an area with cold winters, it is advisable to grow the plant in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sandy soil and perlite or sand and gravel is suitable for growing Lithops plants. Avoid using heavy soils, as they retain moisture, leading to root rot. It is also essential to use a shallow pot or container as Lithops plants have a shallow root system and can become waterlogged if grown in a deep pot.
Cultivation
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn are native to southern Africa, so they require warmth and bright light to thrive. They grow best in well-draining soil and prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Planting them in a container with drainage holes is essential to prevent root rot.
They can be grown outdoors in areas with mild climates or indoors in a sunny window. It's essential to keep them away from frost and areas with high humidity. As succulents, they can withstand drought and need infrequent watering.
Watering
When it comes to watering Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn, less is more. They need to be watered sparingly as they're prone to root rot if overwatered. During the growing season, watering should be infrequent and only when the soil is completely dry.
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn goes dormant during the winter, and watering should be reduced or completely stopped during this period. During the warmer season when they're actively growing, it's best to water them in the early morning or late afternoon. Try to avoid watering them during the hottest part of the day, as it can cause damage to the plant.
Fertilization
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn doesn't need frequent fertilization. However, during the growing season, they may benefit from a light application of fertilizer diluted to half strength. Fertilization should only be done once a month during the growing season.
It's essential to use a balanced fertilizer, high in potassium, and low in nitrogen. Too much nitrogen can cause the plant to grow too fast, and Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn's growth should be kept slow to prevent stretching.
Pruning
Pruning Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn isn't typically necessary. However, old and dead leaves can be carefully removed to keep the plant looking tidy. When removing dead leaves, it's essential to avoid damaging the plant's stem, as this can leave it susceptible to disease or pests.
If you notice the plant is growing too tall or becoming leggy, you can cut off the top to encourage branching. Make sure to use sterilized pruning shears to avoid introducing any pathogens.
Propagation of Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn can be propagated in several ways, depending on the grower's preferences and the availability of resources. Some of the most common propagation methods are:
Division
Division is the easiest and most common method of propagation for Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn. The plant can be easily divided by gently removing it from the soil and carefully separating the individual plantlets from the parent plant. Each of the separated plantlets should have at least one healthy root. Once separated, the individual plantlets can be planted in their separate pots, and they should be watered lightly to encourage them to take root.
Seeds
Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn can also be propagated from seeds. The seeds should be collected from the parent plant and sown in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not too wet, as overwatering can cause the seeds to rot. Once the seedlings have germinated and are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into their separate pots.
Leaf cuttings
Leaf cuttings can also be used to propagate Lithops comptonii L.Bolus var. divergens (L.Bolus) B.Fearn. To do this, the healthy leaves of the plant should be gently removed using a sharp, sterile knife. The leaves should be allowed to dry for a few days before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not too wet, as overwatering can cause the cuttings to rot. Once the cuttings have taken root, they can be transplanted into their separate pots.
Disease Management
Lithops comptonii is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can still be affected by certain diseases. The most common disease that affects this plant is fungal infections, like root rot and powdery mildew. These diseases thrive in damp conditions and can cause serious damage to the plant if left untreated.
To prevent fungal infections, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant. Make sure the soil is well-draining and remove any dead or decaying plant matter. If the infection has already occurred, remove the affected parts of the plant and treat the remaining area with a fungicide.
Pest Management
The most common pests that attack Lithops comptonii are mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are tiny white insects that can be found on the plant's leaves and stem. They suck the sap out of the plant, which can stunt its growth. Spider mites, on the other hand, are very tiny pests that produce small webs on the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
To manage pests, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation. If you notice any bugs, remove them manually using a damp cloth or cotton swab. Another effective way to get rid of pests is by using insecticidal soap or neem oil, which are both natural and safe options for the plant.
Overall, proper care and maintenance, including watering and fertilizing the plant correctly, can help prevent disease and pest infestations. Keeping the plant in a well-ventilated area and avoiding direct sunlight can also help maintain the plant's health.
