What plant is Lithops marmorata? A brief introduction to the mesemb (Aizoaceae) succulent Lithops marmorata

Habits of Lithops marmorata

Lithops marmorata is a succulent in the genus Lithops of the family Aizoaceae, and autumn and winter are its growing season.

Lithops marmorata is native to South Africa and likes a warm, dry, sunny environment. Its most suitable growing temperature is 15~25°C.

Lithops marmorata is drought-tolerant and afraid of waterlogging. During the growing season, watering once every 3 weeks is enough, keeping the potting soil slightly moist. It is not cold-tolerant, so in winter move it indoors to a sunny spot for care.

Common propagation methods for Lithops marmorata: cuttings, sowing.

Planting and care tips for Lithops marmorata

Care tips for Lithops marmorata

Repotting: repot once every 2 years. When repotting, use a mix of leaf mold, potting soil and coarse sand, adding a small amount of cow dung or bone meal. Note that Lithops marmorata has few and shallow roots, so after repotting place a layer of pebbles on the soil surface, which is both attractive and provides support.

Watering: keep the potting soil moist during the growing season, provide appropriate shade during high summer temperatures, and reduce watering. After it turns cooler in autumn, keep the potting soil slightly moist; in winter keep the potting soil slightly dry.

Fertilizing: fertilize once every half month during the growing season, using decomposed liquid fertilizer or special organic fertilizer for succulents. Stop fertilizing after flowering in autumn.

Note: in spring, Lithops marmorata will show skin-shedding, with a layer of white dead leaves on the surface. At this time, properly control water so it slowly recovers.

Propagation methods for Lithops marmorata

Sowing: usually done in pots in spring and early summer, keeping the temperature at 19~24°C. After sowing, it germinates in 7~10 days. Lithops marmorata grows slowly and is difficult to care for. Watering must be done carefully, and keep it warm in winter and cool in summer. After sowing and surviving, it takes 2~3 years to flower.

Suggested planting combinations: Cotyledon tomentosa, Sedum rubrotinctum.