Troubleshooting
Werner's Living Stone problems — and how to fix them
Werner's Living Stone (Lithops werneri) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Rot from overwatering
The most common cause of death; strictly observe the seasonal watering cycle.
Failure to shed old leaves
If the old leaf pair does not shrivel, withhold all water until it collapses completely.
Stretching
Move to stronger light; etiolated plants rarely recover their compact form.
Mealybugs
Treat promptly with isopropyl alcohol; infestations in the fissure are hard to see.
No flowers
Usually due to inadequate direct sun or incorrect dormancy watering. Correct light and cycle first.
Prevent werner's living stone problems before they start
Most werner's living stone issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Werner's Living Stone problems — FAQ
Why is my werner's living stone rot from overwatering?
The most common cause of death; strictly observe the seasonal watering cycle.
Why is my werner's living stone failure to shed old leaves?
If the old leaf pair does not shrivel, withhold all water until it collapses completely.
Why is my werner's living stone stretching?
Move to stronger light; etiolated plants rarely recover their compact form.
Why is my werner's living stone mealybugs?
Treat promptly with isopropyl alcohol; infestations in the fissure are hard to see.
Why is my werner's living stone no flowers?
Usually due to inadequate direct sun or incorrect dormancy watering. Correct light and cycle first.