These pebble-shaped plants are as low-maintenance as they are charming—and they thrive with just a little love in the right season.
Conophytum (pronounced koh-NOH-fi-tum) are tiny, otherworldly succulents that look more like polished stones than plants. Native to the rocky outcrops of South Africa and Namibia, these miniature wonders thrive in harsh conditions, making them incredibly hardy houseplants when given the right care.
Each Conophytum resembles a soft, fleshy pebble. They grow in small clumps and bloom with daisy-like flowers in autumn—often in vibrant shades of yellow, pink, or orange. Their growth habit is seasonal, which means your attention should shift throughout the year depending on their dormancy cycle.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Living Pebbles, Button Plant |
| Botanical Name | Conophytum spp. |
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Plant Type | Succulent, Perennial |
| Mature Size | 0.5 to 2 inches tall, clumping form |
| Sun Exposure | Bright, indirect sunlight |
| Soil Type | Gritty, well-draining, cactus mix |
| Soil pH | Neutral to slightly acidic |
| Bloom Time | Fall |
| Flower Colors | Yellow, orange, pink, white |
| Hardiness Zones | 9–11 (USDA) |
| Native Region | Southern Africa |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to humans and pets |
How to care for Living Peddles
Light Requirements
Conophytums love the sun—but not too much of it. Think bright, indirect light, especially if indoors. Too much direct sun, particularly during hot afternoons, can cause sunburn. Place them near a sunny window that gets filtered light or give them morning sun and afternoon shade if outside.
Soil Setup
The most important rule? No moisture retention. These plants need a sandy, porous soil—just like their native desert crevices. Use a cactus mix and blend in pumice or perlite to improve aeration.
Watering Schedule
Here’s the secret sauce: water only when the plant is in active growth.
- Fall–Spring: Water sparingly, letting the plant wrinkle slightly before rewatering.
- Summer Dormancy (May–August): Do not water. This is critical. Conophytums go dormant and can rot if given moisture.
Temperature & Humidity
These desert natives prefer cool to moderate temps during their active period:
- Growth season: 60–75°F (16–24°C)
- Dormancy: They tolerate up to 90°F (32°C) if kept dry
Humidity should be low—avoid misting, and never let water sit on their bodies.
Blooms
If you treat them right, your Conophytums may reward you with autumn flowers that pop open in the evenings and release a soft scent. Flowers appear from between the leaf pair and often resemble miniature daisies.
Pruning
There’s virtually no pruning needed. You can:
- Remove dried flower stalks after blooming
- Gently peel off old, papery sheaths once the new body emerges
Propagation Tips
The easiest way to grow more Conophytums is through division:
- Gently separate clumps during repotting.
- Allow cut sections to callous over for a day.
- Replant in dry soil and wait a few days before the first watering.
You can also try seeds, though they’re slow-growing and may take several seasons to mature.
Potting & Repotting
Choose shallow, well-draining containers. Terracotta is ideal. Conophytums like being slightly root-bound and only need repotting every 2–3 years or when the soil becomes compacted.
Repot during their dormant period (summer) or right before growth starts in early fall.
Overwintering
Keep your plant in a cool room with bright light during the winter months. Avoid any moisture, and let them rest. No feeding, minimal handling, and no water unless you see significant wrinkling.
Common Diseases and Mistakes
Common Pests & Diseases
While generally pest-free, watch out for:
- Mealybugs – Remove with rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.
- Fungus gnats – Sign of overwatering; let soil dry out.
- Root rot – The #1 killer; prevent with proper soil and watering schedules.
If rot occurs, remove affected parts and treat the base with sulfur or cinnamon powder before replanting.
Common Mistakes
- Overwatering in summer – the fastest way to kill your Conophytum
- Too much direct sun – can scorch the plant’s skin
- Dense soil – will retain moisture and cause root rot
- High humidity – causes fungal infections
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