Aloinopsis schooneesii aka Living Stone

Aloinopsis schooneesii is a small succulent in the Aizoaceae family. It comes from South Africa's Eastern Cape. Kew places it in desert or dry shrubland. This evergreen plant forms a low mat of tight rosettes. In gardens, it reaches about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] high. Its spread ranges from 0.33–1.64 feet [0.1–0.5 metres]. The RHS gives five to ten years to reach full size.

The thick leaves look like small pebbles or rounded knobs. They have a dark blue-green colour and a finely bumpy surface. A thick taproot grows beneath the small leaf clusters. Over time, the swollen root system forms a caudex. Growers can raise the plant in stages to show these roots. This makes it useful for small succulent bonsai displays. Choose a deep pot that gives the taproot room.

The flowers look like small daisies above the low leaves. The RHS describes yellow blooms about 0.043 feet [0.013 metres] across. LLIFLE describes a bronze tint and darker lines along the petals. Flowering runs from late winter into spring. The RHS notes that blooms open early in the evening. Strong light helps the plant flower well. Cloudy weather can stop the flowers from opening fully.

Give this plant a sandy, porous mix with very good drainage. The RHS recommends full sun and a sheltered site. LLIFLE advises some cover from harsh summer sun and heat. Leaves may turn red with greater sun exposure. The plant withstands drought, but excess water can cause trouble. Let the mix dry before watering again. LLIFLE gives conflicting advice on which season needs more water. The RHS advises against overwatering and suggests one growing-season feed. Sources also disagree on cold tolerance. The RHS rates it H2, which means it cannot survive freezing. LLIFLE reports survival down to 10°F [−12°C]. The RHS rating offers the more cautious guide for cultivation.

Suitable settings include pots, gravel gardens, greenhouses, and conservatories. A bright windowsill offers another place to grow it. Its small size suits a close view of leaves and roots. The RHS lists it as a low-maintenance plant needing no pruning. Watch for spider mites and root rot. The RHS recommends seed or division for propagation. LLIFLE also lists cuttings as an option.