This large family of leaf succulents includes plants of very diverse species and forms, distributed in the desert rocky areas of the Americas, Asia, Australia and Africa. But the family name itself (another name — aizoids — can also be encountered), unlike the well-known Araceae or Gesneriaceae, is not familiar to the average houseplant enthusiast. However, it is to members of this family that the currently fashionable little "living stones" belong.
In cultivation the following aizoaceae have become widespread: делосперма, литопс, конофитум, мезембриантемум, фаукария, фрития, триходиадемы, and others.
Leaves are not growing or are growing very slowly — the roots may have filled the entire pot and repotting is needed. If repotting was done only a year ago, the soil mix may be incorrect or the plants may lack nutrients in the soil and should be fertilized.
A new pair of leaves has appeared, but the old leaves do not die off and remain green — this can happen if watering was started too early, before the dormancy period ended. Watering should begin only when the old leaves wrinkle and begin to dry up.
Leaves have become too elongated and flowering does not start — it may be too dark; the natural conditions of aizoaceae assume maximal sunlight.
Leaves soften and blacken — this indicates rot from excessive watering. If rot has appeared only on a leaf, you can try to save the plant by cutting out the blackened part and dusting the cut with powdered charcoal. If signs of overwatering (shriveling, wilting and softening not related to natural leaf death) are found on the whole plant, the roots are most likely waterlogged. Remove the plant from the pot. If not all roots are affected (rotten), you can try to save the plant. Rinse it, cut off all blackened parts of the roots and, after letting them dry in the air, plant in new dry soil, dusting the roots with an antifungal powder. Do not water for a week after repotting.
