living stone
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A succulent plant of the genus Lithops: A small, stemless succulent plant native to arid regions of southern Africa. Its defining characteristic is a pair of extremely thick, fused leaves that have evolved to resemble the color and texture of the surrounding stones and pebbles, providing camouflage from herbivores. It produces a solitary daisy-like flower, typically yellow or white, from the cleft between the leaves.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The living stone in my collection is almost indistinguishable from the gravel in its pot.
- During its brief blooming period, the living stone produces a beautiful yellow flower.
- Caring for a living stone requires very little water and plenty of sunlight.
Advanced Usage
- As a common name: "Living stone" is the most widely used common name in English for plants of the genus . It is often used in horticultural contexts.
- The "living stone" is a popular choice for rock gardens and succulent collections.
Variants and Related Words
- Lithops (n): The botanical genus name for these plants, often used interchangeably with the common name "living stone" by enthusiasts.
- He specializes in growing different species of Lithops.
- Stone plant (n): Another common name for the same type of plant.
- The stone plant is a master of disguise in its natural habitat.
- Pebble plant (n): A less common but descriptive alternative name.
- Her windowsill is lined with various pebble plants.
Synonyms
- Lithops (n): The scientific genus name.
- Stone plant (n): A descriptive synonym emphasizing the stone-like appearance.
- Pebble plant (n): A synonym highlighting the resemblance to small stones.
Related Idioms or Phrases
- To blend in like a living stone: An idiomatic expression (derived from the plant's characteristics) meaning to camouflage perfectly within one's surroundings.
- In his grey suit, he managed to blend in like a living stone among the crowd of businesspeople.
Noun
- any plant of the genus Lithops native to Africa having solitary yellow or white flowers and thick leaves that resemble stones