Pleiospilos nelii ‘Rubra' - Red Split Rock

This incredible plant almost doesn't look alive at first glance. Having evolved to camouflage itself by resembling rocks, you have to look a bit closer to realise that its rounded, oval shape is in fact made of chunky succulent leaves and not a split pebble. This cultivar's reddish colouring makes it stand out even more, and as it needs very little water, it is very low-maintenance as a houseplant. In summer you may get a dandelion-like bright pink bloom, which draws attention and show that this plant is definitely not just a stone! Each year the oldest leaves will gradually shrink and die back, but don't worry - this is a natural part of the plant's life cycle! Let those leaves die back and dry out naturally to keep your plant happy. With a sunny position in your home, and very little water (in winter, no water at all), this plant can thrive and add interest to any windowledge.

Scientific Name
Pleiospilos nelii ‘Rubra' (Nel's plant that's full of spots, cultivar: red)

Synonyms: Pleiospilos tricolor, Pleiospilos pedunculatus

Three papers were published in 1930 giving this plant different names; the one naming it P. nelii was the first, so this name is the one that stuck. 

Common Name(s)
Split Rock, Splitrock, Living Stone, Stone Plant, Red Living Stone, Cleftstone, Mimicry Plant, Liver Plant, Living Granite

Origin
Native to rocky, arid areas in the Cape Provinces of South Africa

Light
Requires bright, direct sunlight to maintain its vibrant reddish colour. Keep it near a sunny south- or west-facing window. 

Water
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Even in its active growing season, in spring and summer, it will need plenty of time between waters to dry. In winter it will need even less water as the plant goes dormant; it is best not to water it for a few months at this time. It can be very easy to give it too much water and rot the roots.

Humidity
Prefers low-humidity environments. Avoid misting and ensure good airflow to prevent rot.

Soil
Use a gritty, well-draining succulent or cactus soil, or a mix with added grit, sand or perlite. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Food
Feed once during the growing season (spring or autumn) with a diluted, low-nitrogen fertiliser suitable for cacti and succulents. Feeding is unnecessary in winter.

Temperature
Average household temperatures of about 18-24°C are fine- make sure it doesn't drop below 12°C in winter.

Pet-safe
Yes, but too much nibbling won't be good for pets, small humans or the plant!

Sprouts Top Tips
Avoid watering during dormancy (winter) unless the newer leaves begin to shrivel, as this is a sign the plant needs water. Rotate the plant periodically to promote even growth.

Extras
This plant is adapted to blend into its environment as a survival mechanism, mimicking the appearance of surrounding rocks to deter herbivores.

Did You Know?
The fragrant, daisy-like flowers of Pleiospilos nelii ‘Rubra’ open in the afternoon and close at sunset.