Lithops villetii kennedyi - 20 seeds
Lithops villetii kennedyi - 20 seeds
Lithops villetii subs. kennedyi is a fairly easy to identify subspecies of Lithops villetii. Distinguished from the latter by its truncate profile, narrow and much indented margins and generally reddish-brown colour; uniform and usually easily identifiable. They are generally smaller and greyer in colour than the mainly reddish-brown forms occurring in all other localities
Cultivation and Propagation: L. villetii is relatively easy to grow but great care needs to be taken with soil, temperature, time and amount of watering. It is a winter growing species and heads for dormancy in summer.
Growth rate: It is slow growing but clustering in cultivation, if grown correctly, it will reward the grower with generous displays of flowers.
Soil: Since roots are quite shallow, use a sandy gravel mixture (e.g. 2 parts sand : 1 part clay loam : 1 part gravel) or a cactus mix with extra perlite or pumice. For best results, use a shallow pot, and only use the smallest diameter pot that will accommodate the plant. Clay pots help the plants to dry out between watering.
Waterings: Requires little water, otherwise its epidermis breaks (resulting in unsightly scars). Watering should be very sparing and regular only during the late autumn and early winter months, e.g. no more frequently than once in two weeks, but when watered, they should be drenched so that the water reaches the bottom of the container. Water minimally in summer, only when the plant starts shrivelling. It is also best to water in the mornings so that the excess water evaporates and the upper layers of soil dry out fairly quickly. No water should ever be allowed to stand around the roots.
Exposure: Keep cool and shaded in summer, needs full sun or light shade in the other seasons. High levels of light are needed in autumn to flower and for good plant development. The low intensity of sun light during the growing season of this species generally prevents the white flower flowers from opening.