Origin
Lithops karasmontana (Dinter & Schwantes) N.E.Br. subsp. eberlanzii (Dinter & Schwantes) D.T.Cole is a succulent plant that originated from Namibia, specifically from the Karas Mountains in southwestern Africa. This plant grows in gravelly soils and rocky areas, where it has adapted to thrive in harsh, arid conditions.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as Karas Mountains Living Stone or Eberlanz's Lithops in English, and as "Karasbergvygie" or "Karasbergvygie groen" in Afrikaans, the language spoken in Namibia and parts of South Africa.
Uses
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii is often grown as an ornamental plant in rock gardens, containers, and dry landscapes. They are also grown by collectors as part of their Lithops collection. The plant's beautiful, colorful, and unique appearance makes it popular among succulent enthusiasts.
General Appearance
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii has a distinctive appearance that sets it apart from other succulent plants. It has two succulent leaves that grow from a central point and form a fissure between them, which is where the plant's colorful flowers emerge. The plant's leaves are mottled or spotted with shades of green, brown, gray, or cream, which helps it blend in with the surrounding rocky terrain.
The plant has a low-growing and clumping habit with a width of up to 8 cm. Its flowers are pinkish or yellowish in color, and they appear in late summer or early fall. This plant is easy to care for and requires minimal watering, making it an ideal plant for those who live in dry regions or want a low-maintenance plant indoors.
Light Requirements
Lithops karasmontana (Dinter & Schwantes) N.E.Br. subsp. eberlanzii (Dinter & Schwantes) D.T.Cole requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is important to provide filtered light or partial shade. These plants are generally well-suited for indoor growing, and should be placed near a window that receives bright but indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Lithops karasmontana (Dinter & Schwantes) N.E.Br. subsp. eberlanzii (Dinter & Schwantes) D.T.Cole prefers moderate temperatures, with a range of 60°F (15°C) to 80°F (27°C) being ideal. These plants can tolerate colder temperatures, but it is important to keep them away from drafts and extreme temperature changes. In addition, avoid exposing these plants to high humidity, as this can lead to problems with rot and fungal diseases.
Soil Requirements
Lithops karasmontana (Dinter & Schwantes) N.E.Br. subsp. eberlanzii (Dinter & Schwantes) D.T.Cole grows best in well-draining soil that is low in organic matter. A soil mixture consisting of equal parts sand, perlite, and commercial cactus mix can be used to create a suitable growing medium. It is important to avoid overwatering these plants, as they are prone to root rot. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again, and always use a pot with drainage holes to prevent water buildup.
Cultivation
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii is a succulent plant that is native to the southern parts of Namibia, and it is best grown in well-draining soil. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.5, but it can tolerate more acidic soils. The plant prefers full sun for at least 6 hours a day and can thrive in hot and dry conditions.
Watering Needs
This plant has typical watering needs for a succulent, which means it requires infrequent, deep watering rather than frequent, shallow watering. Water the plant deeply when the soil is dry to the touch, making sure to allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Be careful not to overwater, which can lead to root rot. During the winter dormant period, reduce watering frequency, as the plant needs less water during this time.
Fertilization
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii does not require frequent fertilization, but you can use a succulent or cactus fertilizer at half the recommended strength every two to four weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Stop fertilization during the winter dormant period, as the plant is not actively growing at this time.
Pruning
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii does not require pruning as it grows close to the ground and does not have long stems or branches. However, you can remove any yellow or dead leaves from the plant to maintain its appearance and prevent potential diseases or pests. When removing leaves, be careful not to damage the remaining parts of the plant.
Propagation of Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii can be propagated through different methods such as by seeds, offsets, and leaf cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii usually produces seeds after flowering. The seeds are tiny, so they must be planted on the surface of the soil mixture. They need light for germination, so cover them with a thin layer of sand or fine gravel. Make sure to keep the soil mixture moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will usually germinate within two weeks to two months.
Propagation by Offsets
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii produces offsets around its base. To propagate through offsets, carefully remove them from the parent plant and plant them in a separate pot with a well-draining soil mixture. Make sure not to damage the roots while separating them from the parent plant.
Propagation by Leaf Cuttings
Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii can also be propagated by leaf cuttings. Cut a healthy leaf from the plant using a sterilized knife and allow it to dry for a few days. Then, dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil mixture moist, but not waterlogged, until new growth emerges.
Propagation of Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii can be challenging, so it's essential to ensure the right conditions are met for the chosen method. Ensure the soil mixture is well-draining and has a good amount of perlite or sand mixed in it. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot, and make sure to provide bright indirect light to encourage growth.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that can affect Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering and can lead to the death of the plant. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure that the plant is not sitting in water and that the soil is well-draining. It is also important to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Another disease that can affect this plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease manifests as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overcrowded, and there is adequate air circulation. If powdery mildew does appear, application of a fungicide can help to manage the disease.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that can affect Lithops karasmontana subsp. eberlanzii is mealybugs. These insects are small and white and can usually be found on the underside of the leaves or around the base of the plant. To manage mealybugs, it is important to remove any visible insects and to apply an insecticide if necessary.
Another pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. These pests are extremely small and can often go unnoticed until they have caused significant damage to the plant. To prevent spider mites, it is important to ensure adequate humidity levels, as dry air can be a major attractant. If spider mites are present, application of an insecticidal soap can help control the infestation.
Regular monitoring of the plant for both pests and diseases can help to prevent and manage any issues that may arise.
