Origin
Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici (D.T.Cole) D.T.Cole, commonly known as Frederick's living stone, is a succulent plant that belongs to the family of ice plants (Aizoaceae). The plant is native to the Great Karoo region of South Africa and can be found growing in the provinces of Northern Cape and Western Cape.
Common Names
The Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici (D.T.Cole) D.T.Cole is commonly referred to by a variety of names. In South Africa, it is known as "Vingerklip" which translates to "finger rock" due to its unique appearance. It is also called "Living Stone" in reference to its ability to blend in with the surrounding stones and soil.
Uses
Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici (D.T.Cole) D.T.Cole is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. Its unique appearance and ability to blend in with its surroundings make it a popular choice for gardens and rockeries. Additionally, the plant is known for its ability to help purify the air by removing pollutants.
General Appearance
The Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici (D.T.Cole) D.T.Cole has a distinctive appearance that allows it to blend in with its surroundings. The plant is a small, compact succulent that grows close to the ground and has a flattened, almost disc-like shape. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, and each plant has two of them that appear to be fused together. The leaves have a smooth, pebble-like texture that allows the plant to blend in with the surrounding stones and soil. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in the fall.
Light Requirements
Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici requires bright light but avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. The plant can thrive under grow lights, provided they get intense light for 10 to 12 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici grows best under warm temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This plant can tolerate temperature drops to 10°C (50°F) at night, but it’s best to avoid sudden or extreme temperature fluctuations as they can cause leaf damage.
Soil Requirements
Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici thrives in well-draining soil mixtures that are rich in inorganic matter such as coarse sand, pumice, and perlite. The soil should be able to maintain a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5, which is slightly acidic to neutral. Additionally, the plant prefers soils that are well-aerated to prevent root rotting.
Cultivation Methods
Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici is a succulent plant that requires minimal care and is easy to cultivate. It is native to South Africa and thrives in dry, desert-like conditions. Choose a well-draining pot and soil mix to plant your lithops. Give it plenty of sun and avoid over-watering.
Watering Needs
It is important to avoid over-watering your Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici, as this can cause root rot and lead to the death of the plant. During the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall, water sparingly only when the soil is completely dry. In the winter months, the plant enters a dormant phase, and watering can be reduced even further.
Fertilization
Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici does not require much fertilizer. If you choose to fertilize, do so sparingly and only during the active growing season. Use a low-nitrogen, high-phosphorus fertilizer to promote flowering and fruiting. Alternatively, you can amend the soil with a slow-release fertilizer when planting.
Pruning
Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici does not require any pruning. In fact, pruning can be detrimental to the plant's health. It is essential to allow the plant to go through its natural growth cycle, which involves producing a central pair of leaves each year. These leaves will eventually dry up and fall off, leaving behind a new set of paired leaves.
Propagation of Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici
Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici, commonly known as stone plants, are succulents that are primarily propagated by seed. However, they can also be propagated by division.
Propagation by Seed
The most common method of propagating Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici is through seed. The seeds are very small, so care needs to be taken when handling them. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix, barely covering the seeds with soil. Water the soil well and cover the pot or tray with a clear plastic lid or plastic wrap to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist and place the pot or tray in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Germination usually occurs within a few weeks.
Propagation by Division
Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici can also be propagated by division. When the plant has outgrown its container, carefully remove it from the soil. Gently separate the individual plant bodies by pulling them apart or using a sharp knife or scissors. Make sure each division has roots attached to it. Allow the divisions to dry for a day or two to let the cut surfaces callus over. Plant the divisions in well-draining soil mix and water thoroughly. Place the newly potted plants in a shaded location until they establish roots and show new growth.
Propagation by seed and division are relatively easy ways to propagate Lithops dinteri subsp. frederici, and can generate new plants in as little as a few weeks or as long as a few months.
Disease and Pest Management for Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici (D.T.Cole) D.T.Cole
Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici (D.T.Cole) D.T.Cole is a fascinating plant that requires minimal care. However, it can still suffer from diseases and pests. Proper management of these issues will help you keep your Lithops healthy and attractive.
Common Diseases
One common disease that can affect Lithops is root rot. This occurs when the roots are too wet, causing them to rot, which results in stunted or wilted growth. To avoid this, make sure you do not overwater your plant and that it has adequate drainage.
Bacterial soft rot is another disease that can affect Lithops. This disease causes the plant to turn to mush due to bacteria that eat away at the tissues. To prevent this disease from spreading, remove the affected plant and dispose of it. Avoid reusing the soil as the bacteria may remain on the pot. Instead, replace it completely before planting a new Lithops.
Leaf spots, powdery mildew, and botrytis can also occur in Lithops. To prevent these diseases, ensure proper ventilation and avoid overwatering. Also, avoid getting water on the leaves as it can encourage the growth of fungal infections.
Common Pests
Several pests can damage Lithops, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests will suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth or death. To manage these pests, consider regular dusting or washing of the plant. In extreme cases, you may need to use insecticidal soaps or oils to eliminate these pests.
Snails and slugs can also damage Lithops. These pests will eat holes in the leaves, leading to deformity and sometimes killing the plant. To manage them, clear any debris near the plant and consider using a copper barrier around the pot's edge to prevent them from crawling on the plant.
Proper management of pests and diseases in Lithops dinteri Schwantes subsp. frederici (D.T.Cole) D.T.Cole is crucial to maintaining a healthy plant. Keep an eye out for any signs of disease and pests, and ensure you follow the recommended management practices to keep your plant looking beautiful.
