Aizoaceae - Botanical Family

Lithops, also known as Living Stones, are a genus of succulent plants native to southern Africa. They are characterized by their mimicry appearance, resembling small stones in their natural habitat. The plants have a compact form, consisting of one or more pairs of fleshy leaves and a minimal stem. The slit between the leaves holds the meristem, which produces flowers and new leaves during the growing season.

Lithops prefer full sun and dry conditions, as well as poor, sandy soil. They can be grown in USDA Zone 9-11, in containers or outdoors, but must be brought indoors in colder climates. During the growing season, they should receive bright sun and warm temperatures and be allowed to dry completely between waterings. Fertilization should be done bi-monthly with a succulent fertilizer. In a pot, it is important to use a porous soil to ensure proper drainage.

Lithops enter a dormant phase in late spring or early summer, during which they require little or no water. The plants should be stored in a cool, dry place during this period. When the cooler and shorter days of fall approach, Lithops will begin growing again. The plants have evolved to survive in their harsh habitat by using stored water to last through intense heat and little rainfall in summer and blending in with the surrounding stones for protection

Malephora consists of a dozen of species. Their foliage is very resistant to natural elements and to the fire. Malephora are used mostly for foliage that stays attractive all year round. They form spreading masses of narrow, light green leaves. The flowers are rather modest but the blooming season is longer than other species. They will take some frost. Propagation: Cuttings.

Drought-tolerant; suitable for xeriscaping.

Like all living rocks, they thrive in porous soils with excellent drainage. The plants require little or no water when they are dormant.

Sesuvium portulacastrum has smooth, fleshy, glossy green leaves that are linear or lanceolate, from 10-70 millimetres (0.39-2.76 in) long and 2-15 millimetres (0.079-0.591 in) wide. Flowers are pink or purple.

This low maintenance succulent grows best in full sun, but can also tolerate some light shade. It can handle short periods of drought and is known for its resistance to dry conditions. However, for best results, Titanopsis should receive moderate amounts of water during the summer months, allowing it to dry out between waterings. Fertilize in the spring with an organic succulent fertilizer.

This small shrub and thrives in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-11. The foliage of this succulent is ornamental, having a unique texture featuring white warts that provide an interesting contrast against the blue-green tips of the leaves. During late spring and early summer, it produces small yellow-orange flowers that have five petals.

Titanopsis are very forgiving and require very little care. In cold weather climates, they can easily be grown in potting soil and bring indoors over the winter. If you decide to keep it outdoors during the winter, it is important that it be planted in well-draining soil, preferably sandy soil or a succulent or cacti mix, and placed in a sheltered location. If your Titanopsis must endure cold temperatures, be sure to wrap it in burlap to protect it from frost. During the summer months, water thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out before watering again. During the colder months, reduce watering, allowing soil to dry out completely between waterings. Keep in mind that over-watering can cause root rot.

Overall, Titanopsis is a hardy, low-maintenance succulent that is great for any garden or home. With its unique ornamental foliage and vibrant flowers, it is both beautiful and easy to care for.

Trichodiadema are small, short-stemmed succulents with small, elongated, alternating sections measuring 8 mm long. They are grey and green. Trichodiadema densum -small and compact, mat forming perennial succulent with fleshy caudex up to 3,5 cm in diameter. It readily produces abundant attractive pink flowers.