Overview
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei is commonly called Leslie's living stone. It is a small and fascinating succulent plant that belongs to the family of Aizoaceae, which is native to the Karoo region of South Africa.
Description
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei is a small, slow-growing, and mostly solitary plant, which forms clumps occasionally. The plant is stemless and grows to be about 2.5 cm (1 in) tall and 5 cm (2 in) wide. Its leaves are fused, and their tips form a window through which sunlight penetrates, giving the illusion of a two-lobed plant. The leaves are usually green, sometimes tinged with red or purple, and often have grey-white veins.
The plants are known for their ability to blend in with their surroundings by imitating pebbles, thus protecting them from herbivores and harsh environmental conditions. They typically bloom in the summertime, and their flowers are pale yellow, magenta, or pink-white.
Uses
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique appearance. They are also used as terrarium plants, dish gardens, and container plants due to their small size and ease of care. Additionally, the plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used for the treatment of various ailments such as headaches, coughs, and colds in traditional African medicine.
Cultivation
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot or fungal infections, so it is essential to let the soil dry out almost entirely before watering. They prefer bright, indirect sunlight and warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 °C (68 to 86 °F). The plant can be propagated through seeds sown in well-draining soil in the spring.
Light Requirements
Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in bright light. However, it can also tolerate low to medium light conditions. Therefore, it is best to place the plant near a south-facing window or under grow lights. The plant should receive at least 4-6 hours of bright, indirect light a day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 18 to 27°C (65 to 80°F). It is important to note that Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei goes dormant during the summer months. Therefore, the plant should be kept in a cooler environment during this time to prevent excessive growth.
Soil Requirements
Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei requires well-draining soil that is rich in minerals. The plant thrives in soil mixtures that are composed of at least 50% inorganic materials such as perlite or pumice. The soil should also be slightly acidic with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It is best to use a cactus or succulent soil mix or prepare a DIY mixture to ensure the plant is in its optimal growing environment.
Cultivation methods
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei is a succulent plant that is native to South Africa and is suitable for indoor cultivation. It grows best in well-draining soil that is low in organic matter. The plant should be placed in a bright area with indirect sunlight, and it should be protected from strong winds and frost.
Watering needs
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei is a drought-tolerant plant that requires very little water. In the growing season, it is sufficient to water the plant once a month. During the dormant season, watering should be reduced to once every two months. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering sessions to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei is a slow-growing plant that does not require frequent fertilization. A fertilizer that is specifically formulated for cacti and succulents can be applied once a year at half-strength. Over-fertilizing can damage the plant, so it is best to err on the side of caution and apply minimal amounts of fertilizer.
Pruning
Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br. subsp. lesliei does not require pruning as it is a slow-growing plant that naturally maintains a compact shape. However, in cases of overcrowding or damage, it is possible to remove individual leaves with a clean and sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears. It is important to avoid damaging neighboring leaves or the stem of the plant.
Propagation of Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei
Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei can be propagated by two major methods: seeds and offsets.
Propagating by Seeds
Seeds can be collected from the plant after the flowers have faded and the ovary has developed into a seed capsule. It is best to wait until the capsule dries up and splits before harvesting the seeds. Once harvested, the seeds should be left to dry for a day or two before sowing them in a well-draining soil mixture.
The soil mixture should be made of equal parts of coarse sand, perlite, and peat. After sowing, the seeds should be misted with water and covered with a plastic bag or a clear plastic lid to retain moisture. The container should be placed in a bright, but shaded area, with temperatures ranging between 65 and 75° F (Gardenia). Germination normally occurs within 7-21 days.
Propagating by Offsets
Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei offsets are commonly referred to as "pups." The pups grow at the base of the plant and are separated from the parent plant by gently twisting and pulling the pup away. After separation, each pup should be left to dry for a day or two before repotting in a well-draining soil mixture, similar to the seed propagation method described above.
It is important to note that Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei offsets may only appear every few years, whereas growing the plant from seed is a more reliable method of propagation (Mountain Crest Gardens).
Disease and Pest Management for Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei
While Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and other harsh conditions, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Here are some common issues that may affect this plant, along with ways to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases in Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei is root rot, which is caused by overwatering and poor drainage. To prevent this disease, ensure that the soil is well-draining and that you do not water the plant excessively. If you notice signs of root rot, such as wilting leaves and a foul odor, it may be too late to save the plant. Remove infected plants and their soil, and treat the surrounding area with a fungicide.
Another disease that may affect this plant is leaf spot, which is caused by bacteria or fungi. Symptoms of leaf spot include brown, black, or yellow spots on the leaves, which may spread and cause the leaves to die. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pests
The most common pests in Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei are mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that cluster on the leaves and stems of plants, sucking out their sap and causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand or with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Spider mites are tiny, reddish-brown arachnids that spin webs on the leaves of plants, sucking out their sap and causing yellowing leaves and leaf drop. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to control spider mites.
By taking these steps to manage diseases and pests in Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei, you can ensure that your plant stays healthy and thriving.
