Living Rock Cactus Pleiospilos bolusii

The African Living Rock is a small succulent herbaceous perennial that has a stone-like or pebble-like appearance and is native to South Africa. In its native habitat, it appears to be half buried in the soil and can be found in dry shrubland or deserts in the Eastern Cape to Western Cape of South Africa. Currently, they are threatened by overgrazing by sheep and goats and also by the illegal collection for commercial trade. It is a member of the ice plant family (Aizoaceae). The specific epithet, bolusii, honors a South African botanist, Harry Bolus.

This plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate direct morning sun but prefers partial shade in the afternoon. It will require a well-draining potting mix. They are not cold weather tolerant and are hardy in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones of 9b to 11b. Watering is dependent on its growth cycle. The plant is dormant during the summer and does not require water. During the fall, it is best to water thoroughly during its growing cycle but allow the potting mix to dry out between waterings. Repotting may be required every 2 years. It may be propagated by seeds or division. 

The plant has a clump-forming habit, stemless, and grows about 3 inches tall and 6 inches wide with a split in the middle where new growth occurs. It has two to four opposite, fleshy, thick, triangular-shaped leaves that unite at the base and are grayish green to brown with small dark spots. The leaves help the plant conserve water, and their stone-like appearance helps protect the plant from predators. They bloom in the late summer to early fall. The flowers are yellow or orange, daisy-like, and measure about 3 inches in diameter. The blooms may be solitary or found in groups of three. Frequently, they are coconut-scented and bloom over several days. The bloom opens in the afternoon and closes by sunset. The fruits are dark brown and woody capsules that have 10 to 12 locules.

The Living Rock is a rare but popular ornamental. This small plant is easy to grow, and it can be used as a houseplant or in warmer climates planted in a rock garden. It is drought and poor soils tolerant. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  This plant is generally disease free. Monitor for aphids and avoid overwatering.