Split Rock Succulent Info: How to Plant and Grow Pleiospilos nelii
The split rock succulent (Pleiospilos nelii) also known as the cleft stone, living rock cactus or mimicry plant is one little plant that makes a gorgeous houseplant. I like it because it has low watering needs and a strong resistance against heat, pests and drought.
True to its name, the split rock has a very interesting shape and colors that makes it look like a small lump of rock that has been split in half. It can be mistaken for lithops due to their close resemblance but what sets them apart is their flowering behaviours.
Both plants bloom in the early fall producing colorful flowers. Whereas Lithops only produces one flower at a time, Split Rocks produce multiple flowers in a single reproductive cycle. However, they are all native to South Africa and their care and maintenance needs are similar.
Split rock succulent info
Common names | Split rock succulent, cleft stone, living rock cactus or mimicry plant |
Botanical name | Pleiospilos nelii |
Plant type | Perennial succulent |
Mature size | 4 inches tall, 8 inches wide |
Bloom season | Fall to early winter |
Flower color | White, yellow, orange and magenta |
Sun exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil type | Well-draining sandy soil |
Hardiness zones | 9-11 (USDA) |
Toxicity | Not toxic to pets and humans |

How to plant and grow the split rock plant
Growing and maintaining Pleiospilos nelii is relatively easy. The succulent needs little space to thrive and can perfectly fit on your window sill. Here is what’s needed to grow this unique plant.
Watering split rock succulent
Split rock succulents have low watering needs. So when watering be sure to water infrequently. This succulent has adapted to surviving arid conditions. It can go without water for an extended period of time. So, it’s best to allow the soil to dry completely before watering.
Overwatering this plant can cause root rot and other fungal infections. Always stick your finger in the soil to check the moisture level. If the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch, water your split rock plant until water drains out of the bottom of the pot through drainage holes.
Remember, it’s always better to underwater than to overwater. During the dormant period in fall and winter, watering should be minimal. Only water to sustain the plant but increase the frequency of watering during the active growth in spring and summer.
Soil and fertilizer needs
When growing the split rock succulent, it’s important to use a well-drained soil. This type of soil allows excess water to drain through easily, preventing root rot. You can go for soil specifically formulated for succulent or create your own by combining equal parts of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand.
Although Pleiospilos nelii has low nutrient needs, it’s important to boost soil fertility by applying a balanced natural NPK fertilizer at least once per year during the active growth season in spring. Remember not to overfertilize as excess nutrients in the soil can harm the plant.
Optimal light requirements
Split rock plants thrive in partial shade to full sun. They prefer a spot where they can receive at least 8 hours of sunlight per day. The best location is near a south or east-facing window. Remember to protect the plant from intense, direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon.
If your plant is not receiving enough light, consider purchasing artificial grow lights to supplement the natural light. This will ensure healthy growth throughout the year. Be sure to position the lights at the right distance to avoid burning or overheating.
Temperature, humidity, and cold hardiness
Split rock succulents are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. They prefer warm climates with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 85°F. If you live in places that experience winter, you can still grow your cleft stone indoors and provide the ideal conditions for growth.
When growing split rock succulent in a controlled environment such as terrarium or greenhouse, provide low to medium humidity levels. These plants are adapted to arid conditions and excess moisture around them can cause fungal problems. Simply don’t miss to provide good air circulation.
Propagation and repotting
Split rock succulents are slow growers, but I recommend repotting them every 3-5 years. This provides fresh nutrients to the plant and also more space for healthier growth. Use fresh soil and a slightly bigger pot with drainage holes at the bottom.
If you want to expand your collection or grow more plants that you can gift your friends and family, propagating split rock cactus is very easy.
- Choose a plump, healthy leaf from your split rock succulent. Avoid any damaged or discolored leaves.
- Gently twist and pull the leaf from the stem. You may also use a clean sharp knife to extract the leaf without causing any damage.
- Place the cutting in a dry, shaded area to callus over for a few days. This helps prevent rot.
- Prepare a well-draining potting mix in a pot with drainage holes at the bottom.
- Plant the calloused leaf cutting in your potting mix without burying it too deep. You can gently press it into the mix.
- Water the soil lightly and place the pot in a place with bright indirect light.
- Monitor the cutting as you allow the soil to dry out completely between your waterings.
- Be patient as split rock succulents can take several weeks or even months to root.
Pests and common problems
Split rock succulents are extremely resistant to common gardening problems such as pests, diseases, and drought. There are just a few challenges you may encounter when caring for this plant which include the following:
Overwatering
Watering frequently before the soil is completely dry is one the leading problems of split rock succulent. Excess moisture in the soil can stop air from reaching the roots and as a result they suffocate and die. The condition also encourages fungi that causes root rot.
As said, between waterings, its important to let the soil dry out completely. Always test the soil moisture before watering either by sticking your finger in the soil or by using a moisture meter.
Insect pests
Insect pests such as mealybugs, aphids, and other scale insects can infest the plant, sucking sap. If not controlled, they can cause severe distortion and even death of the plant. So, it’s best to inspect your plant regularly for pests and treat them before they cause serious damage.
You can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove insects pests from the stems and leaves of your plant or apply an organic pesticide. I recommend neem oil or insecticidal soap as they have proven safe for use on plants and around animals.
Sunburn
Pleiospilos nelii are adapted to bright light but exposure to intense direct sunlight can cause sunburn. If your plants are getting brown or discord patches on the leaves, it’s commonly a sign of too much sunlight. So, move them to a place with filtered sunlight or provide shade.
Final thought
Split rock succulent is a stunning plant with two to four stone-looking leaves that are separated by a cleft down the center. It is a low maintenance plant that is very easy to grow as a houseplant. In addition to their amazing shapes and hues, they produce spectacular flowers in the fall.

My name is Diane M Lewik, and I am the founder of this website. I am a degree holder in plant biology from the University of California – Berkeley. Over the years, I have cultivated a vast collection of succulents and I have learned a great deal about how to grow and care for these unique plants. Feel free to ask any questions in the comment section below.