Split Rock

A great talking point plant. The stemless leaves are split down the middle and united at the base. Each year in winter, the foliage, splits and grows afresh, the old leaves being absorbed by the new. It is really quite fascinating.

Split Rock send up one or two daisy type flowers on mature plants, each up to 5cm. This bloom has a very dramatic affect against the rock like form of the leaves. The flowers don’t last long, but have a soft, coconut fragrance. Split Rock make excellent potted plants for indoors in bright light. Water to establish, then allow to almost dry out before watering again. In winter allow the soil to actually dry out before watering again.

Pleiospilos are extremely slow growing, taking around two years to reach 2cm across (this is the average of their current size). They look good in combination with Lithops or Living Stones.

SIZE (HxW): 2-8cm x 2-10cm

I SEE THE LIGHT: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Keep out of the hot afternoon sun (especially in summer) lest their leaves be sunburned or roots damaged. To be overly specific, they need 3-5 hours of direct bright light and more of indirect if possible.

I NEED A DRINK: They don’t need much water – really barely any. Water the potting mix lightly October to March, allowing the soil to dry out completely in between. Over winter is a rest period for them where they may form a new plant, don’t water at this time. It is always better to under do it, observing when the water storing leaves begin to shrivel and only then watering.

I WILL SURVIVE: Plant into pots, ensuring you choose a cactus/succulent potting mix for best results as it offers the sharp drainage they need. If you have some Dolomite lime lying around or rock dust add it to the mix for some trace elements. Choose a pot with drainage holes to ensure they don’t end up sitting in water, or promise to be restrained in watering. Best grown in a deep container (10cm) to allow their roots a space to grow. Adding a sprinkling of small stones to the top of the soil creates a nice, natural look.

Use a diluted, liquid fertiliser to just a quarter strength in spring to keep them happy and healthy. They aren’t heavy feeders so will forgive you if you forget. Repot every two to three years in spring, once the new plant is formed. When repotting, don’t water, let them form some roots – check after a week or two with a gently tug, and only then should you water again.

Split Rock is native to South Africa.