Lithops Lithops aucampiae
At a glance
- Light
- Direct sun
- 25000–80000 lux
- Water
- Every 21–60 days
- Soil bone-dry. Stop watering entirely during winter dormancy (Nov-Mar) and during summer splitting
- Humidity
- 15–40%
- Tolerates dry air
- Temperature
- 5–38°C
- Ideal 15–30°C
- Soil pH
- 6–7.5
- extremely fast-draining
- Mature size
- 5 cm tall
- 8 cm wide
- Native to
- Namibia, South Africa, Botswana
- Growth
- Slow
- Rosette
Watering calculator
Estimate how often to water your Lithops based on pot size, light, and season.
Always check the top 2 cm of soil before watering. Calculator output is an estimate, not a schedule.
Diagnose a problem
Click an issue to see causes and fixes for Lithops.
Or use Plant Doctor — AI-powered diagnostic that picks the top 3 most likely causes with family-specific reasoning and step-by-step fixes (photo upload coming soon).
Compare with similar plants
Light requirements in detail
Lithops prefers direct sun (25000–80000 lux) . Direct sun essential — minimum 4-5 hours daily. Insufficient light causes etiolation and prevents the seasonal split. South-facing window or grow light required for most homes.
A spot 1–2 meters from a bright east or south-facing window usually fits this range. Direct afternoon sun through unfiltered glass can scorch leaves; sheer curtains help diffuse it.
Watering in detail
Water Lithops every 21– 60 days during the growing season, allowing Soil bone-dry. Stop watering entirely during winter dormancy (Nov-Mar) and during summer splitting to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter when growth slows.
This plant tolerates the occasional missed watering — err on the dry side rather than overwater.
Browse plants like Lithops
Frequently asked questions about Lithops
How often should I water Lithops?
Water Lithops every 21–60 days during the growing season, allowing Soil bone-dry. Stop watering entirely during winter dormancy (Nov-Mar) and during summer splitting to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency by 30–50% in winter.
What kind of light does Lithops need?
Lithops prefers direct sun (25000–80000 lux). Direct sun essential — minimum 4-5 hours daily. Insufficient light causes etiolation and prevents the seasonal split. South-facing window or grow light required for most homes.
Is Lithops toxic to cats?
Lithops is non-toxic to cats according to the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a cat chews the leaves, but it will not cause poisoning.
Is Lithops toxic to dogs?
Lithops is non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA. Mild stomach upset is still possible if a dog chews the leaves.
How big does Lithops grow?
Lithops reaches about 5 cm tall and 8 cm wide at maturity. Growth rate is slow.