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Lithops is a genus of succulent plants native to Africa, mainly in Namibia and South Africa. The word "lithos" is Greek and means "stone". "Lithops" means "stone-like". This is a very good description of these plants, which try to avoid being eaten by blending in with the surrounding pebbles. They are, in fact, often known as pebble plants or living stones. The genus was first described by William John Burchell in 1811.
Individual plant usually has two bulbous, almost fused leaves opposite to each other and hardly any stem. The slit between the leaves contains the meristem and produces flowers and new leaves. Old leaves die after the new pair has emerged. Occasionally two new pairs emerge, a form of asexual reproduction. The plant is almost entirely buried in soil, only exposing the flat upper surfaces of leaves. This is an adaptation to the dry, hot environment.
Lithops are also gaining popularity as a house plant. Seeds and plants are widely available in shops and over the Internet. They are relatively easy to grow, provided that they are not watered too generously and abundant light and heat are provided. In winter they should remain completely dry and temperature should be cooler.
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