How to grow Shixiantao
Shixiantao is a common ornamental plant loved for its unique leaf shape and drought tolerance. In recent years, with the rise of home gardening, the cultivation method of Shixiantao has become a hot topic. This article will introduce in detail the planting steps, maintenance techniques and FAQs of Shixiantao to help you easily cultivate healthy Shixiantao.
1. Basic information about Shixiantao

Lithops (scientific name: Lithops), also known as "Lithops", is native to South Africa and is a type of succulent plant. Its shape resembles a small stone, with thick leaves and various colors, making it of extremely high ornamental value. The growth cycle of Shixiantao is divided into a growth period and a dormant period. Special attention needs to be paid to its growth habits when planting.
| Properties | Description |
|---|---|
| scientific name | Lithops |
| Family | Lithops |
| Origin | south africa |
| growth cycle | Growth period (spring, autumn), dormant period (summer, winter) |
| Lighting requirements | Adequate sunlight, avoid exposure to the sun |
| Watering frequency | Once a week during the growth period and once a month during the dormant period |
2. Steps for planting Shixiantao
1.Choose soil: Shixiantao likes loose, breathable soil. It is recommended to use special soil for succulents, or prepare it yourself (the ratio is peat soil: perlite: river sand = 1:1:1).
2.Sowing or transplanting: Shixiantao can be propagated by sowing seeds or dividing plants. When sowing, spread the seeds evenly on the soil surface, cover with a thin layer of soil, and keep it moist. When transplanting, select healthy plants, carefully separate them and plant them in new soil.
3.Lighting management: Shixiantao needs sufficient light, but in summer, it needs to avoid direct sunlight and can be placed in a place with scattered light. When the light is insufficient in winter, appropriate supplementary light can be provided.
4.Watering Tips: Shixiantao is drought-tolerant, and watering should follow the principle of “prefer dryness to wetness”. Water once a week during the growing season and once a month during the dormant period. Avoid water accumulation on the leaves when watering to prevent rot.
5.temperature control: The suitable growth temperature of Shixiantao is 15-25℃. Ventilation is needed to cool down when the temperature is high in summer, and it needs to be moved indoors to keep warm when the temperature is lower than 5℃ in winter.
| planting stage | Things to note |
|---|---|
| Sowing period | Keep the soil moist and avoid standing water |
| growth period | Adequate light and moderate watering |
| Dormant period | Reduce watering and avoid high temperatures and humidity |
| flowering period | Avoid moving plants and keep the environment stable |
3. Frequently Asked Questions
1.What should I do if the leaves of Shixiantao become wrinkled?: It may be due to lack of water or damage to the root system. Check the soil moisture and water appropriately; if there is a problem with the root system, it needs to be replanted.
2.What should I do if the Shixiantao grows too long?: Leggy growth is usually caused by insufficient light. Increase the lighting time or move the plant to a sunny location.
3.What should I do if the Shixiantao doesn’t bloom?: Shixiantao flowering requires mature plants and a suitable environment. Make sure the plants are more than 3 years old and provide sufficient light and temperature differences.
4.How to prevent and control pests and diseases?: Common diseases of Shixiantao include root rot, which is mostly caused by excessive watering. The main pests are scale insects, which can be wiped with alcohol cotton balls or sprayed with insecticides.
4. Summary
Shixiantao is a unique and easy-to-maintain succulent. As long as you master its growth habits and maintenance skills, you can easily cultivate healthy and beautiful plants. Whether sowing or transplanting, the key is to provide suitable light, moisture and temperature environment. I hope this article can help you successfully grow Shixiantao and enjoy gardening!
check the details
check the details