Lithops lesliei is a species of plant in the family Aizoaceae. The plant is threatened due to its medicinal properties.
Lithops lesliei has moderate disease resistance and is relatively sensitive to humidity. It becomes prone to illness when humidity is high and is liable to develop root rot during dormancy. Regarding care, Lithops lesliei tolerates drought but requires more water in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Lithops lesliei is appropriate for growers with some experience, but it can be challenging to care for, especially during dormancy. It is particularly well-suited to those who can devote time to its care in the winter months.
How to keep Lithops Lesliei.
Light
Native to dry habitats, Lithops lesliei does best in full sun, since its natural surroundings have intense sunlight and very little shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in its growth.
Temperature
Although Lithops lesliei can tolerate some heat, it mainly grows and does best in cooler seasons and becomes dormant during summer. In very hot summer conditions, provide shade to avoid scorching from strong sunlight. Water should be reduced or stopped in the hottest season to prevent root rot. Lithops lesliei shows vigorous growth in winter and spring, and if temperatures do not fall too low it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Lithops lesliei, light applications of fertilizer one to two times a year during the growing season are enough. Avoid fertilizing in winter and summer when the plant is dormant. Cut back on fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before applying any. Fertilizing supports healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pot & Repot
When you repot Lithops lesliei, pick a pot slightly larger than the current one that has good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Gently remove the plant from its old pot, brush off excess soil, and plant it at the same depth. Wait a few days before watering so any root damage can heal. Repot in spring or autumn and place it in a brightly lit location.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Lithops
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 10-11
- Mature Height
- 1 cm
- Mature Spread
- 2 cm
- Leaf Color
- Gray, Light Gray, Olive
- Leaf Type
- Deciduous
- Flower Size
- 2.03 cm to 3.05 cm
- Bloom Time
- Fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late fall, Early winter, Mid winter
- Native Area
- South Africa, Botswana
