What Temperature Does My Lithops Need?

Lithops bromfieldii

By Kiersten Rankel

Jun 18, 20244 min read

Discover the secret to healthy Lithops with optimal temperature tips that mimic their desert home. 🌑️🌡

Lithops
  1. 65 to 80Β°F ideal for Lithops, mimicking their arid native habitats.
  2. 🌑️ Recognize stress: Yellowing or mushy texture indicates temperature issues.
  3. Protect from extremes with partial shade and indoor relocation.

Optimal Temperature Range for Lithops

Lithops, affectionately known as living stones, thrive in temperatures that mimic their native arid environments. 65 to 80Β°F (18 to 27Β°C) is the sweet spot for these succulent mimics, though they can endure the occasional spike up to 90 to 100Β°F (32 to 38Β°C) without throwing a tantrum.

🏜️ Native Habitat Context

These stone doppelgΓ€ngers hail from the southern African deserts, where the sun is a relentless overseer. It's no surprise they're comfortable in USDA Zones 10 to 11, where mild summers don't overcook them.

🌨️ Winter Watch-Outs

Come winter, don't freak out if your Lithops start shedding leaves like a dog in summerβ€”it's their normal. Just keep the potting mix sterile and the drama low.

πŸŒƒ Nighttime Know-How

Nighttime is chill time for Lithops, quite literally. They prefer a dip in the mercury after dark, with temperatures ideally hovering around 68Β°F (20Β°C). This cool-down is their version of a nightcap, setting them up for effective water uptake and a good night's rest.

Remember, these aren't your average houseplants. They're tough little survivors that have mastered the art of not sweating under the desert sunβ€”or your living room lamp.

Lithops bromfieldii plant in a blue pot with visible soil.

Signs of Temperature Stress in Lithops

Recognizing heat stress in Lithops is key to their survival. Yellowing of the plant indicates a loss of chlorophyll, often due to excessive light. If your Lithops feels warm to the touch, it's begging for some shade and a breeze. Sunburn may manifest as reddish-purple spots, while leathery leaves scream severe dehydration.

🌑️ Heat Stress Symptoms

Conversely, cold stress can be just as harmful. Lithops that are too chilly may turn mushy or exhibit a wrinkled appearance. They're not built for the cold; they like it just right. If you spot a Lithops looking like it's been left out in the cold, literally, it's time to bring the heat.

❄️ Cold Stress Indicators

Remember, these symptoms can also be mistaken for watering issues. Always check the temperature first to rule out thermal distress. If your Lithops could talk, it would probably tell you to keep it cool, but not too cool, and warm, but not too warm. It's all about that sweet spot.

Lithops bromfieldii plant in a small pot with visible soil, well-framed and in focus.

Protecting Lithops from Extreme Temperatures

Lithops, those quirky, stone-mimicking succulents, demand specific temperature conditions to thrive. Let's dive into how to shield them from the scorching sun and the icy grip of cold snaps.

🌑️ High Temperature Protection

When the mercury climbs, Lithops can get as uncomfortable as a camel in a sauna. Partial shade in the afternoon is their best friend. A sheer curtain or a strategically placed plant can cut down on the sun's intensity. Remember, these guys prefer a balmy 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Above 90 degrees, and you're flirting with foliage sunburn. If you can't avoid high temperatures, ensure good air circulation to prevent overheating.

❄️ Cold Temperature Defense

On the flip side, Lithops are about as frost-tolerant as a sunbather in the Arctic. Below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and you're risking a Lithops popsicle. Bring them indoors to prevent cold damage. A cozy spot near a south or east-facing window works wonders. If you're dealing with a cold snap, consider a cold frame or a layer of mulch for those planted outdoors. It's like tucking them in with a warm blanket.

Additional Tips

Remember, Lithops care is a bit like a dance β€” it's all about finding the right rhythm between sunbathing and shade, warmth and cool retreats. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have happy, healthy living stones.

Lithops bromfieldii plants in a small pot with visible soil.

Keep your Lithops in their ideal comfort zone 🌑 with Greg's environmental tracking, ensuring they flourish at the perfect 65 to 80°F range.