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Pleiospilos nelii 'Rubra' 5.5cm H8cm

Pleiospilos nelii 'Rubra' 5.5cm H8cm

Regular price £8.00 GBP
Regular price Sale price £8.00 GBP
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Pleiospilos nelii ‘Rubra’, often called a Living Stone, is a striking succulent known for its thick, split leaves flushed with deep purple, red, and dusky green tones. Perfectly adapted to arid conditions, this slow-growing plant mimics surrounding stones to survive in nature, making it both fascinating and highly collectible.

  • Full Botanical Name: Pleiospilos nelii ‘Rubra’
  • Common Names: Split Rock, Living Stone, Rubra Living Stone
  • Country and/or Region of Origin: South Africa
  • Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Rocky, arid regions with intense sunlight, minimal rainfall, and mineral-rich soils

Care Guide

  • Care Guide:
  • Light: Bright light to full sun; strong light enhances the red and purple pigmentation.
  • Ideal Room: Sunny windowsills, conservatories, south-facing windows
  • Feeding: Very light feeding with a diluted cactus fertiliser once or twice during the growing season.
  • Humidity: Low humidity required; avoid damp air.
  • Ideal Temperature: 15–28°C; protect from frost and prolonged cold.
  • Watering: Water sparingly. During active growth, allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter and never water while old leaves are being absorbed.
  • Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic
  • Soil Type: Extremely free-draining, mineral-rich cactus mix with grit or pumice
  • Propagation: Seed or careful division of mature clumps
  • Eventual Height and Spread: 5–10 cm tall; 8–12 cm wide
  • Growth Rate: Very slow
  • Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant; root mealybugs possible if overwatered
  • Repotting: Rarely needed; every 3–5 years or when crowded
  • Pruning: None required; old leaves naturally shrivel and are reabsorbed
  • Air Purification: Low; primarily ornamental
  • Folklore: Living stones symbolise resilience and survival, blending seamlessly into their environment as a reminder of nature’s adaptability
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