Lithops Flowering Succulent Cactus Seeds for Planting

No, despite the "cactus" reference, Lithops belongs to the ice plant family (Aizoaceae), not the cactus family (Cactaceae). It only resembles a cactus in its drought-adapted, water-storing form.

Yes, this is natural. The old leaf pair shrivels and is absorbed as a new pair emerges from the center, which can look alarming but is a normal part of the growth cycle.

Lithops evolved for extreme drought and can quickly rot if watered while dormant, since their thick leaves are already storing enough moisture to sustain them without added water.

It can take two to five years for a seed-grown Lithops to reach flowering maturity, making this a slower, more patience-based project than many succulents.

This camouflage is believed to help the plant avoid being eaten by grazing animals in its native rocky, arid habitats in southern Africa.

Yes, Lithops develop a surprisingly long taproot beneath the visible "stone," so a deeper container supports healthier root development than a shallow dish might suggest.