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Description
Pleiospilos Nelii, also known as the Living Stone plant, is a fascinating succulent that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is named after its unique appearance that resembles a pebble or stone. This plant grows low to the ground and can reach a height of 4 inches with a diameter of 6 inches. It is a slow-growing plant that can live up to 50 years with proper care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Pleiospilos |
| Species | Nelii |
Appearance
The Living Stone plant has a unique appearance that makes it stand out from other succulents. It is a small, clump-forming plant that grows low to the ground. Its leaves are fused together and form a round or oval shape that resembles a pebble or stone. The leaves are green and slightly translucent, allowing sunlight to penetrate into the plant’s body. The plant produces a single flower that blooms in the fall or winter. The flower is yellow and has a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators.
Care Guide
To ensure the health and longevity of your Pleiospilos Nelii, it is essential to follow proper care guidelines. Here are some tips to help you care for your Living Stone plant:- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and kill the plant.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can feed it with a diluted succulent fertilizer during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Use a mix of sand, perlite, and potting soil to create a well-draining soil mix.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive. Place it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Living Stone plant is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to mealybugs and aphids. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. To prevent root rot, avoid watering the plant excessively.
Habitat
Pleiospilos Nelii is native to South Africa and can be found growing in rocky, arid regions. The plant is adapted to survive in harsh conditions and can withstand high temperatures and low water availability. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and rockeries.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Pleiospilos Nelii?
A: Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and kill the plant.
Q: Does the plant require fertilization?
A: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can feed it with a diluted succulent fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: Can the plant survive in colder climates?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9a to 11b. If you live in a colder climate, you can grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse.
Q: What pests can affect my Pleiospilos Nelii?
A: The plant can be susceptible to mealybugs and aphids, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Related Plants
– Pleiospilos Bolusii- Pleiospilos Compactus- Pleiospilos Nellii Royal Flush- Pleiospilos Rubra
References
– “Pleiospilos Nelii – Living Stones.” World of Succulents, www.worldofsucculents.com/succulents/living-stones/pleiospilos-nelii/.- “Pleiospilos Nelii.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c485.
