Source: Wikimedia Commons
Lithops lesliei
BeginnerLithops lesliei
A Lithops with inverted-cone heads whose flat tops carry lacework of tiny clear windows. A long-loved standard species with yellow autumn flowers.
About
Lithops lesliei is a succulent in the Aizoaceae with the largest range in the genus, spreading along the Vaal River basin from south-eastern Botswana through the Free State, Gauteng, the eastern Northern Cape and North West Province of South Africa. It grows in gravel pockets in grassland in a relatively wet area, often hidden by grass in both summer and winter. It was discovered in 1908 by T. N. Leslie, mayor of Vereeniging, and his son, and named after them. It is a medium to large Lithops with inverted-cone heads and flat or slightly convex tops. The ground colour ranges from coffee brown and grass green to grey-green, pinkish grey or rusty orange, but the lacework of tiny round clear windows in an opaque surface is consistent, making it fairly easy to tell from other species. Large yellow flowers appear in autumn, and heads divide into clumps of about 15 (medium forms) or 8 (large forms). Several varieties and a white-flowered form (albinica) are known. It is among the Lithops most forgiving of watering mistakes, and in Japan it is a widely sold standard, with white-flowered selections also available.
Size of the Lithops lesliei
The Lithops lesliei grows to Medium to large Lithops; clumps of about 8-15 heads.
Temperature & humidity for the Lithops lesliei
The ideal temperature for the Lithops lesliei is 8〜25℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Free State, Gauteng, eastern Northern Cape and North West (South Africa), south-eastern Botswana
Lifespan
Perennial (little published data on lifespan)
Size
Medium to large Lithops; clumps of about 8-15 heads
Temperature
8〜25℃
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering & Fertilizer
A little slow-release or liquid fertiliser from autumn to spring
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Keep it in a sunny, rain-sheltered spot outdoors all year. In midsummer avoid heat and humidity with airflow and shade so it rests cool.
Watering
It is a winter grower. Water thoroughly when the soil dries from September to November, making sure it does not go short while flowering. In winter water on warm days, hold back in spring until the old leaves have withered, and in the summer rest just mist two or three times a month.
Temperature & Overwintering
Keep winter minimums above about 3°C to keep plants looking good (they survive down to roughly 0-3°C). Light frost rarely kills them, but bring them in or protect them in the coldest spell.
Soil & Repotting
It sends down a thick taproot, so use a reasonably deep pot and free-draining mix. It needs repotting only when growth slows or the pot is crowded, ideally in October-November.
Propagation
Propagate from seed (October-November) or by dividing clumps; use division to keep selections such as white-flowered forms true.
Pests & Cautions
Scale insects and aphids may attack buds and flowers and root mealybugs the roots; slugs eat petals and cutworms the leaves. Pick off spent flowers, which can cause rot.
Lithops lesliei FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Lithops lesliei?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Lithops lesliei?
The ideal temperature for Lithops lesliei is 8〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Lithops lesliei get?
The mature size of Lithops lesliei is Medium to large Lithops; clumps of about 8-15 heads. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Lithops lesliei?
Lithops lesliei: watering & fertilizer — A little slow-release or liquid fertiliser from autumn to spring. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Lithops lesliei?
The price of Lithops lesliei varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Accepted name: Lithops lesliei (N.E.Br.) N.E.Br.
Synonyms: Mesembryanthemum lesliei N.E.Br., Lithops lesliei subsp. albinica D.T.Cole, Lithops lesliei var. hornii de Boer
Authority databases: GBIF · GBIF: Lithops lesliei
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Regulations & Conservation Status
Lithops lesliei is not listed in CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Lithops lesliei
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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