Overview
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is a part of the family Aizoaceae, also known as the ice plant family. This plant is a popular ornamental succulent that is often grown in rock gardens or as a houseplant.
Common Names
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri is commonly known as 'Turbiniformis Dabner's Living Stone' or simply 'Dabner's Living Stone.' The name 'Living Stone' refers to the plant's ability to blend in with surrounding stones, which is an evolutionary adaptation to avoid herbivores.
General Appearance
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri has a unique and distinctive appearance. It consists of two fleshy leaves that are fused together, forming an almost spherical shape. The plant's leaves are grayish-green in color and have raised, wavy edges. The top of the leaves is flat and has a small fissure or slit in the center. This fissure is where the plant's flowers will appear during the growing season.
Uses
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri is primarily grown as an ornamental plant. Its unique appearance and low-maintenance requirements make it an excellent addition to rock gardens or as a potted plant. Additionally, the plant's fleshy leaves can store water, which allows it to survive in arid conditions with minimal watering.
Light Requirements:
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri requires bright light to grow and thrive. It is best to provide it with 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it is important to gradually acclimate the plant to more light to avoid sunburn on the leaves.
Temperature Requirements:
The ideal temperature range for Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri is between 50-80°F (10-27°C). During the plant's active growth phase, it prefers temperatures on the warmer end of the range. However, during dormancy, it prefers temperatures on the cooler end. It is important to protect the plant from extreme heat and cold, which can be harmful and cause damage.
Soil Requirements:
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri requires well-draining soil with a pH range between 6.0-7.0. Use a cactus or succulent potting mix or create a custom mix with sand, perlite, and peat moss. The soil should be moist but not water-logged, as over-watering can lead to root rot. It is recommended to fertilize the plant during its active growth phase with a low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer.
Cultivation Methods
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole is a drought-tolerant plant that requires well-draining soil. It is recommended to cultivate it in containers rather than the ground for better control of soil moisture and composition. The plant can thrive in rocky, gravelly soil mixes that allow water to drain quickly.
These plants prefer full sun, and it's best to place them in a location with direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. The ideal temperature range for cultivation is between 55°F and 80°F.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri, it's essential to avoid overwatering. These plants have a unique water storage system and can go for long periods without water. Overwatering can cause root damage, leading to plant death.
The recommended watering method is the "soak and dry" method, where you water the plant thoroughly and let the soil dry completely before watering again. It's best to water the plant sparingly during the winter dormancy period.
Fertilization
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri does not require regular fertilization. These plants can get their nutrients from the soil mix they are planted in. However, you can supplement the soil mixture with a slow-release fertilizer with low nitrogen content during the growing period.
The recommended frequency for fertilization is once every six months.
Pruning
Pruning Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri is not necessary as they have a compact size and a slow growth rate. However, you can remove dead or damaged leaves by gently pulling them from the base of the plant. It's best to do this during the growing season to avoid inducing dormancy.
Also, removing the flower stalks after blooming is essential to direct the plant's energy towards growth and water retention rather than seed production.
Propagation of Lithops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole
Lithops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole is commonly known as Dabner's Living Stones. Propagation of Lithops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole can be done by two major methods:
Seeds
The propagation of Lithops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole can be achieved by sowing seeds. You need to use well-draining soil, and provide adequate moisture and warmth for the seeds to germinate. The seeds of Litthops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole is very fine, so you have to use a fine-grit soil mix to sow these seeds.
Offsets
Propagation of Lithops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole can also be done by offsets. When Lithops Turbiniformis Auct. Var. Dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole starts to produce offsets, they can be separated from the mother plant using a sterile sharp knife. Plant these offsets in their individual pots, with a well-draining soil. Ensure to avoid watering these offsets immediately after planting so as to prevent rot. Wait for a few days for them to settle in before watering.
Disease and Pest Management for Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole
Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri (L.Bolus) D.T.Cole, commonly known as Living Stones or Pebble Plants, is a unique and beautiful succulent native to Southern Africa. While they are generally hardy and low maintenance, they are still vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can impact their health and appearance.
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects Lithops when the soil is too wet or poorly drained. The affected plant may stop growing, and its leaves may start to turn yellow. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained, and avoid overwatering. If caught early, you can salvage the plant by removing it from the soil and cutting away any soft or decaying roots, then replanting it in fresh soil and a new pot.
2. Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes small brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. It's usually a result of high humidity or water splashing on the leaves. To control leaf spot, avoid watering the leaves directly, and ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation. If caught early, prune off the affected plant parts and treat with a fungicide.
Common Pests
1. Mealybugs: These pests are small, white insects that leave behind a cotton-like residue on the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, causing it to wilt and eventually die. To control mealybugs, isolate the infected plant, then spray it with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Alternatively, you can dab the insects with cotton swabs dipped in alcohol.
2. Spider Mites: These pests are tiny creatures that appear as tiny red or black dots on the plant. They feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to appear yellow and speckled. To control spider mites, mist the plant regularly, and ensure that it's well-watered. You can also treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By following these tips and implementing a proper disease and pest management program, you can help preserve the health and beauty of your Lithops turbiniformis auct. var. dabneri plant for years to come.
