Overview
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus, also known as the living stone plant, is a small succulent native to South Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant among succulent enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and low maintenance requirements.
Origin and Common Names
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus is native to the rocky areas of the Northern Cape province in South Africa. It is commonly known as the living stone plant due to its resemblance to a small rock or stone. Other common names for this species include inter alia, stone plant, flowering stone and split rock.
Appearance
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus has tiny, compact, and raised bodies that can reach up to 4cm in diameter. These bodies are made up of a pair of succulent leaves that grow together at the base, separating only at the top to form a slit-like opening for a flower. The leaves are generally flat or slightly curved and are widely oval or conical in shape, with a pointed tip. The leaf color is a yellow-greenish gray, with markings ranging from dots, dashes or lines of brown, orange, or red.
Uses
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. It is an extremely resilient plant, making it an ideal choice for busy gardeners or those who are relatively new to gardening. In general, these plants prefer to grow in containers in bright light or full sun, without much water. They need well-draining soil and only need to be watered once a month.
Light Requirements
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus requires bright, indirect light. Place the plant in a location that receives plenty of light without direct sunlight. Too much sun can damage the plant and cause its colors to fade.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). Never expose the plant to temperatures below 40°F (4°C) or above 90°F (32°C). Fluctuations in temperature can cause stress and damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus requires well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.5 to 7.5. Plant the Lithop in a pot that allows water to drain freely to prevent the plant from sitting in standing water. A good soil mixture consists of coarse sand and gravel. Avoid using soil that retains moisture as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods for Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus is a popular succulent plant that requires minimal care and attention. To cultivate this plant successfully, you should start by choosing a suitable location with adequate sunlight and excellent drainage. It is best to plant Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus in a sandy soil mix that allows proper air circulation around the roots.
You can propagate Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus by seed or division. When propagating by seed, it is best to sow the seeds during the spring or summer months. For propagating by division, you should wait until the plant has matured and has produced a cluster of offsets at the base.
Watering Needs for Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus has specific watering requirements that are different from other succulent plants. This plant does not require frequent watering, and overwatering can lead to root rot. It is best to water Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus only when the soil is completely dry. During the winter months, you can reduce the watering frequency to once a month as the plant enters dormancy.
It is essential to note that Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus is a desert plant and can tolerate extended periods of drought. Therefore, it is best to underwater this plant as opposed to overwatering it.
Fertilization of Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize this plant once or twice a year during the spring or summer months. It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer with low concentrations of nitrogen. This plant will respond well to a diluted seaweed-based fertilizer that contains essential micronutrients.
Pruning of Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus does not require significant pruning. However, you can remove any dead or yellow leaves by gently pulling them away from the base of the plant. Additionally, you can cut back any stems that have become too long and leggy. It is advisable to use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of fungal and bacterial diseases.
Since Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus is a slow-growing plant, you should avoid pruning excessively as it can stress the plant. Instead, focus on providing the plant with proper care, adequate sunlight, and appropriate watering frequency to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus can be propagated both by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
To propagate Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus by seeds, follow these steps:
- Collect the fresh seeds from the dried fruit capsules.
- Clean the seeds to remove any fruit debris and dry them on a paper towel for 24 hours.
- Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover them with a thin layer of sand or gravel.
- Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the pot in a bright, warm location with indirect sunlight.
- The seeds will germinate within 7-21 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots after they develop true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
To propagate Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus by cuttings, follow these steps:
- Choose a healthy plant with mature leaves and remove one or more leaves from the base of the plant.
- Let the leaf(s) dry on a paper towel for several days until a callus forms on the cut end.
- Prepare a well-draining potting mix and make a hole with a pencil or chopstick.
- Insert the callused end of the leaf(s) into the hole and backfill with the potting mix.
- Water the soil lightly and place the pot in a bright, warm location with indirect sunlight.
- After a few weeks, new plantlets will emerge from the base of the leaf(s).
Disease and Pest Management for Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus, commonly known as living stones, are known for their unique, stone-like appearance and low maintenance requirements. However, like any other plant, they are also susceptible to several diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
Some of the common diseases that might affect Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus include:
- Leaf Spot: Caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leaf spot appears as water-soaked lesions on the leaves that later turn brown or black.
- Root Rot: Over-watering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which is characterized by brown, mushy roots.
- Viruses: Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus can also be affected by viral diseases, which can lead to stunted growth, mottled leaves, and other symptoms.
Disease Management
Prevention is key when it comes to managing diseases in Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus. Here are some tips to keep your plants healthy:
- Make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogged conditions that can lead to root rot.
- Avoid splashing water onto the leaves, which can spread fungal and bacterial infections.
- Quarantine infected plants to prevent the spread of viruses to healthy plants.
Common Pests
Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus can also be affected by several pests:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause webbing on the leaves and yellowing of the foliage.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck the sap out of the leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the foliage.
- Scale: Scale insects are brown or black and can cause yellowing of the leaves, as well as a sticky residue on the foliage.
Pest Management
Here are some strategies to manage pests in Lithops eksteeniae L.Bolus:
- Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation.
- Remove any heavily infested plant parts or plants to prevent the spread of the infestation.
- Clean the leaves with a damp cloth or cotton ball to remove pests that are present.
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infested plants, being sure to follow the instructions carefully.
