Lithops lesliei aka Leslie's Living Stone

Lithops lesliei is considered one of the most forgiving species in the genus, making it an excellent starting point for those new to living stones. It received the RHS Award of Garden Merit. The main challenge is mastering the seasonal watering cycle — watering during the dormancy period when new leaves are forming inside the old ones is the most common cause of failure. Once you understand this rhythm, care is straightforward.

Lithops lesliei is a dwarf succulent with each individual body reaching about 2–4 cm tall and up to 4 cm across. Growth is very slow, taking 5–10 years to reach maturity from seed. Over time, plants naturally divide to form small clumps of multiple heads, and mature clumps can spread to about 10 cm. The habit is mat-forming and compact.

Lithops lesliei thrives in warm conditions and tolerates high summer heat — in habitat, only temperatures exceeding 60°C prove lethal. It requires a minimum sustained temperature of about 5°C (41°F), though it can briefly survive down to -7°C (19°F) if the soil is completely dry. In temperate climates, it should be grown under glass or indoors to protect from frost and winter moisture.

Seasonal care is critical for Lithops lesliei. During the active growing season (late summer through autumn), water freely and allow soil to dry between waterings — this is when the plant flowers. After flowering through winter and into spring, stop watering entirely; the plant grows new leaves internally, drawing moisture from the old outer leaves until they shrivel to papery shells. Resume watering only when the old leaves have completely dried up, typically in late spring.

Lithops lesliei produces large, daisy-like yellow flowers in late summer to autumn, emerging from the fissure between the paired leaves. Individual flowers can reach up to 5 cm (2 inches) in diameter and typically open in the afternoon. High light levels during autumn are necessary to trigger flowering. Some cultivars such as 'Albinica' and 'Witblom' produce white flowers instead of yellow.

Lithops lesliei is one of the most variable species in the genus. Recognised varieties include var. lesliei (deep rusty brown), var. hornii (ochre to rusty brown), var. luteoviridis (green shades), var. mariae (gold-speckled orangish body), var. minor (consistently smaller), and var. venteri (grey body with dark windows). Subspecies burchellii is distinguished by finer meshlike markings. Popular cultivars include 'Albinica', 'Fred's Redhead', 'Vivid Green', 'Storms Albinigold', and 'Witblom'.

Lithops lesliei can be grown outdoors year-round only in USDA zones 9–11, in a position with full sun and excellent drainage. It must be completely protected from winter rain. In cooler climates, it is best kept in containers that can be moved under cover during cold, wet months. Outdoor plants in very hot climates benefit from afternoon shade to prevent overheating near reflective surfaces.

Lithops lesliei is most commonly grown from seed, sown in spring or summer on fine, well-drained sandy soil with a thin grit covering. Water from below using fungicide-treated water and maintain humidity for the first few days under glass or plastic, then gradually reduce moisture. Mature multi-headed clumps can also be divided in spring, ensuring each division retains some root. Cuttings are difficult to root and generally not worthwhile given how readily the species grows from seed.

Lithops lesliei can remain happily in the same pot for many years, even decades. Repotting is typically only necessary to divide overcrowded clumps, refresh depleted soil, or provide more room for growth. Use a small individual pot with excellent drainage and a sandy-gritty mineral mix. The best time to repot is in spring before the new growing season begins.

The most common pest is mealybugs, which can infest both the plant surface and roots. Red spider mites may appear in very dry conditions but are controlled by occasional misting. Sciara flies (fungus gnats) can damage seedlings — a grit mulch discourages them. Root rot from overwatering is by far the greatest threat and the most common cause of death. Good drainage, proper seasonal watering, and adequate ventilation are essential for prevention.

Lithops lesliei produces daisy-like flowers that are primarily pollinated by insects in the wild. The species is self-sterile, meaning cross-pollination between two genetically different plants is required for seed production. In cultivation, hand pollination with a fine brush between different clones is necessary to produce viable seed. The mostly 6-chambered seed capsules contain large, reddish seeds.

Slow growth is completely normal for Lithops lesliei — it is an inherently slow-growing species that takes 3–5 years to reach flowering size from seed and 5–10 years to full maturity. If growth seems unusually stalled, check for insufficient light (the most common cultural problem), root mealybugs that may be feeding unseen below the soil surface, or compacted, poorly draining soil that restricts root development.

Leslie's Living Stone’s native range is Southern Africa.

Leslie's Living Stone does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

When it comes to the Leslie's Living Stone, a potting soil that is too moist can cause problems. For this reason, it's important to use a soil mix that is well-draining and does not retain too much moisture. A soil that includes perlite or vermiculite for drainage and organic matter for nutrition is ideal. You can achieve this by simply adding a few scoops of perlite to your store-bought cactus soil.

Leslie's Living Stone thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Stone Faces.

Leslie's Living Stone enjoys dry environments, but misting the plant or providing extra humidity can create an environment for harmful fungi to thrive on the leaves.

The growth of Leslie's Living Stone is not rapid and it doesn't necessitate any extra fertilization. By replacing its potting soil once a year, it should receive ample nutrition. It is important to note that plants obtain their energy from the sun's rays, not from fertilizers.

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.