Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei

The habitat of Lithops lesliei subsp. lesliei is grassland or gravelly open ground on flats and slopes. In spite of the sparse vegetation in the western parts of its large distribution area in inland South Africa, this tiny stone plant is often not spotted among the small real stones and grass. Bigger rocks, shrubs and grass provide shelter against the elements and human prowlers collecting it.

The plant is sought after and from a survival point of view, too often found in the veld. In demand among succulent gardeners, as well as traditional healers, the population in habitat is reducing. It is considered to be near threatened early in the twenty first century, due to harvesting and human activities, although possibly increasing in numbers cultivated (Smith, et al, 1998; Wikipedia; http://redlist.sanbi.org).