Genus guide
Conophytum — 25 species
Part of the Living stones & mesembs family (Aizoaceae)
Conophytum is a genus of miniature South African succulents — the cone plants and button plants — that grow as paired, fused leaf bodies resembling small pebbles or cones. They are a collector's genus, exceptionally compact and slow-growing. Give them full sun or the brightest windowsill available; insufficient light causes etiolation. Follow their winter-growing, summer-dormant cycle: water freely in autumn and winter, then reduce to almost none from late spring until new bodies emerge. Toxicity varies across the genus, so verify the safety of each species before bringing one home if you have pets.
All Conophytum species we cover
- Conophytum (Living Pebbles)
- Conophytum Calculus
- Conophytum ficiforme
- Conophytum Minutum
- Conophytum Obcordellum
- Conophytum Pageae
- Conophytum Pellucidum
- Conophytum Uviforme
- Conophytum wettsteinii
- Engraved Cone Plant
- Etched Cone Plant
- Friedrich's Cone Plant
- Maughan's Cone Plant
- Maughan's Cone Plant
- Meyer's Cone Plant
- Miniature Cone Plant
- Miniature Cone Plant
- Pillans' Cone Plant
- Pleasant Cone Plant
- Shrubby Cone Plant
- Stephan's Cone Plant
- Two-Lobed Cone Plant
- Witteberg Cone Plant
- Yellow Cone Plant
- Yellow Cone Plant
Conophytum — frequently asked questions
Are Conophytum plants toxic to cats and dogs?
Most Conophytum are pet-safe. Of the 25 Conophytum species we cover, 14 are non-toxic on the ASPCA list and 11 carry a toxic or mildly-toxic rating. Even so, confirm the individual species before trusting it around pets.
How much light do Conophytum plants need?
Most Conophytum do best in direct sun. If yours stretches toward the window or loses its variegation it wants more light; scorched or bleached leaves mean it is getting too much direct sun.
Are Conophytum easy to care for?
Some Conophytum suit more experienced growers — several want strong light, sharp drainage or a specific seasonal rhythm. Check the individual species page for the exact regime.
How many Conophytum varieties are there?
Growli's care library covers 25 Conophytum species and varieties — browse them all above. They share a similar light, water and soil pattern, so once you learn one Conophytum, the rest follow closely.
Comparing apps rather than plants? PictureThis alternatives — 7 plant ID apps compared.