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Split Rock (Pleiospilos nelii)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Split Rock

Intermediate

Pleiospilos nelii

A unique succulent looking like a split rock. Beautiful when flowers bloom from the center.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
5〜35℃
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
3-8cm
Humidity
30〜50%
Watering
Minimal

About

Pleiospilos nelii (Split Rock) is a dwarf succulent in the family Aizoaceae, native to the Cape Province of South Africa. Its two to four stacked, hemispherical leaves are patterned with dark spots on a grey-green or brownish surface, providing near-perfect mimicry of the granite boulders in its habitat. Showy orange to yellow flowers, often as wide as or wider than the plant body, emerge from the central fissure in autumn and winter. Mature plants are 3–8 cm across. Like Lithops, Pleiospilos undergoes an annual leaf renewal cycle in which old leaves shrivel as they transfer their stored water to the emerging new pair. Supplying water during this transition period leads to double shedding or rot. Watering should be restricted to a few times per year, with complete drought in summer. Maximum sunlight and extremely fast-draining substrate are essential for success.

Basic Info

Origin

South Africa (Cape Province)

Lifespan

Perennial

Size

3-8cm

Temperature

5〜35℃

Humidity

30〜50%

Watering & Fertilizer

Minimal

Growing Tips

Watering

水やりは年間で数回のみ

Watering

夏は完全に断水

Lighting

直射日光を好む

Housing

通気性の良い用土を使用

Notes

リトープスと同様の管理

Split RockRock-likeMesembMinimal water

Split Rock FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Split Rock?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Split Rock?
A

The ideal temperature for Split Rock is 5〜35℃. Recommended humidity is 30〜50%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Split Rock?
A

The average lifespan of Split Rock is Perennial. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.

QHow large does Split Rock get?
A

The mature size of Split Rock is 3-8cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Split Rock?
A

Split Rock: watering & fertilizer — Minimal. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Split Rock?
A

The price of Split Rock varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Pleiospilos nelii Schwantes

Synonyms: Pleiospilos pedunculatus, Pleiospilos tricolor

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

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