Lithops – Living Stones: Origin, Care & Expert Tips
Lithops, commonly known as Living Stones, are among the most extraordinary succulents in cultivation. Their stone-like appearance is not a coincidence but a brilliant survival strategy developed over thousands of years. At TOMs FLOWer CLUB, Lithops are valued for their sculptural beauty, longevity, and botanical uniqueness - perfect for collectors and lovers of minimalist plant design.
Origin & Natural Habitat
Lithops are native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Southern Africa, particularly Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa. In nature, they grow almost flush with the ground among gravel and stones, where extreme heat, strong sunlight, and long periods without rain are the norm.
Their camouflage protects them from grazing animals and excessive sun exposure. This adaptation also explains their slow growth and highly specific care requirements.
What Makes Lithops So Special?
Each Lithops plant consists of just one pair of thick, fleshy leaves with a fissure in the middle. From this fissure, flowers emerge - and once a year, an entirely new pair of leaves replaces the old one.
Key characteristics:
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Stone-like shape and patterns
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Extremely slow growth
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Long lifespan (decades with correct care)
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Large yellow or white flowers in autumn
Lithops are not decorative foliage plants - they are living sculptures.
Lithops Care Guide - How to Grow Living Stones Successfully
Light
Lithops require a very bright location. A sunny windowsill is ideal. Direct sunlight is not only tolerated but often beneficial once the plant is acclimatised.
Water - Less Is More
Watering is the most critical aspect of Lithops care.
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Water sparingly during active growth (spring and autumn)
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Keep completely dry in summer dormancy and winter
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Never water while old leaves are being absorbed by the new pair
Overwatering is the most common reason Lithops fail.
Substrate
Use a highly mineral, fast-draining substrate.
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Ideal: Lithops or cactus mix with high grit content
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Avoid organic, peat-based soils
Temperature
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Prefer warm, dry conditions
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Not frost hardy
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Perfect as indoor plants year-round
Fertilisation
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Rarely needed
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If at all, very diluted cactus fertiliser during growth
Good to Know Before Buying Lithops
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Lithops grow very slowly - this is normal
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Wrinkling is often a sign of dehydration, not disease
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Flowering usually occurs only on mature plants
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Repotting is required only every few years
Lithops reward patience and observation rather than frequent care.
Our Recommendation at TOMs FLOWer CLUB
At TOMs FLOWer CLUB, Lithops are organically grown, never over-fertilised, and selected for long-term health. We focus on robust plants that reflect their natural growth rhythm, not artificially accelerated specimens. Our Lithops for sale are cultivated with patience and expertise, making them ideal for collectors looking for authentic, long-lived plants rather than mass-produced succulents.
Lithops are ideal for:
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Collectors of rare succulents
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Minimalist and design-oriented interiors
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Plant lovers seeking low-maintenance but high-impact species
If you are looking for a plant that tells a story of survival, adaptation, and beauty, Lithops - Living Stones are an exceptional choice. As a living stones succulent, Lithops combine extreme resilience with refined aesthetics and are among the most fascinating rare succulents in Switzerland.
Lithops for Sale at TOMs FLOWer CLUB
Discover carefully selected Lithops for sale in our webshop at TOMs FLOWer CLUB. Each living stones succulent is cultivated organically and prepared for successful Lithops care indoors, making them suitable for bright windowsills and protected interior spaces.
Our Lithops are ideal if you are looking for:
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Rare succulents in Switzerland
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Authentic living stones with natural growth rhythm
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Collector-quality Lithops for indoor cultivation
Browse our current selection of Lithops living stones for sale directly in the webshop and choose a plant that fits your space, light conditions, and level of experience.
Quality before quantity – organically cultivated plants at TOMs FLOWer CLUB.