Stone Plant Dinteranthus vanzylii

Living Stones are tiny succulent single or clumping plants that resemble rocks. They are members of the ice plant family (Aizoaceae). They rarely flower with yellow blooms.  They are often confused with plants in the genus Lithops.  

These plants are composed of 2 succulent leaves that are nearly united with a fissure in the center. The stems are underground. The leaves range from plain chalky white to having various brown spots or lines on the leaves. They rarely bloom but have solitary bright yellow to orange flowers in March. Once this plant has bloomed, the leaves shrivel and new leaves are formed. The appearance of the plant looks very similar to rocks found in its native habitat of South Africa. They are able to withstand long periods of drought and have a thick tap root.

Plant living stones in containers in sandy to rocky soils with very good drainage to prevent rot. They need plenty of sun, no fertilizer and little water. If grown outdoors in the summer in humid areas they won't need a lot of water. Spraying the plant can be adequate at times, especially indoors in drier conditions. Their unusual appearance makes them a popular addition to a succulent collection. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Root rot from too much water.