Genus composed of about fifty species of evergreen succulents with fleshy leaves native to southern Africa. They are dwarf plants consisting of a small body formed by a pair of leaves joined almost to the apex. The gap that joins the two leaves can be more or less marked. The appearance of the leaves is very variable in color and design, but these particular plants in shape resemble small pebbles, from which they take the name of "living stones". Every year, during the winter, the old leaves dry up while inside them two new ones form that will replace the now dry ones. Over time, the plant can tiller, dividing into pairs when the leaves moult. The flowers that appear in autumn from the gap in the leaves can be white or yellow. The fruits are small capsules that open when ripe when wet by the rain, to facilitate the dispersion of the very small seeds.
Pedoclimatic requirements
Grow in poor, well-drained soil, with full sun exposure. Watering will begin only when the leaves have finished moulting, generally between April and May. Watering should be done every 7-10 days until the end of flowering (September-October). Not a very rustic species, it can be grown outdoors only where temperatures do not fall below + 0/-2°C.This pretty little succulent is particularly suitable for growing in pots on sunny terraces and balconies.
