Mystery mesemb
I have this mystery seedling that popped up in a packet of ember Lithops seeds. It will be a year old approximately 10/20/26.
I did message the seller that I obtained the Lithops seeds from, she identified it as a Monilaria moniliformis, which she sells.
I agree, that it started out looking like a Monilaria moniliformis, however at this point, I’m not totally convinced.
It is very small, growing very slowly in mostly grit, because the substrate dries out so quickly, I have been giving a light watering once a week. I actually don’t have a clue on its care. I’m still learning about lithops, I know even less about conophytums. Though, I did notice that during this last dormant cycle the two main fissures seem to be shrinking.
A friend mentioned that she agrees that the brown outer leaves are likely due to dormancy, and you can clearly see fresh green growth peeking out from the inside. The fact that it's branching (or splitting) at such a tiny size definitely means its growth cycle is completely different from Lithops or Conophytum!
She is as curious as I am to solve this mystery.
If anyone could help identify this, offer advice on its care, what kind of substrate it would appreciate, when would be a good time to give it, its own pot. I would greatly appreciate it.