Plover Eggs

Bright direct to partial sun. Morning or late afternoon sun is ideal. More sun means more intense purple spotting on the leaves, so if the spots look faded, move it to a brighter spot. It will not tolerate full shade - in low light (more than 8 feet from a window, or a north-facing room. A grow light 10-12 inches away works great if your windows are not cutting it), the plant etiolates quickly, producing pale, spaced-out leaves that lose the compact form entirely.

Low humidity is ideal. This is an arid South African plant and does not want high moisture in the air. Normal household humidity of 30 to 50% is fine. Do not mist.

A fast-draining mix is essential - commercial cactus and succulent soil cut with up to 50% pumice, coarse perlite, or coarse sand. Good drainage and air pockets around the roots prevent the rot this plant is susceptible to in wet conditions. Always use pots with drainage holes.

Mealybugs are the most common pest, especially in leaf crevices where they hide. Treat with isopropyl alcohol on a swab or insecticidal soap. Root rot is the main cultural failure, always from overwatering - especially dangerous during the summer dormancy when the plant is not actively growing and cannot use excess moisture. If you notice leaves looking shriveled and soft rather than firm and plump, check the roots.