Lithops has been very well spread by cultivation and is an example of ex-situ conservation, i.e. where plants have been effectively conserved out of habitat. Seed and plants of all species and many cultivars are today available from specialist succulent nurseries not only in South Africa but also in the USA, Europe and Japan. Plants are relatively easily grown but great care needs to be taken with soil, temperature, time and amount of watering. If it is mastered, growing them becomes a pleasure. Lithops out of habitat are best grown in a container in a greenhouse where watering and temperature can be controlled. Although lithops originate from a very sunny terrain care should be taken in cultivation not to expose a plant that has been grown in partial shade too suddenly to full sun as the sun will cause leaf burn resulting in death or disfigurement. Plants should gradually be hardened off by exposing them to brighter light conditions over a period of time to allow the plant to adjust.

Grow Lithops optica in soil that consists of a sandy gravel mixture (e.g. 2 parts sand : 1 part clay loam : 1 part gravel). Add ample bone meal and dolomitic lime. Lithops optica is best planted in a sunny and airy part of the greenhouse, and not too close to the glass roof or sides of the house as the plants can overheat during hot spells. They do not necessarily need direct sun all day and are best protected from the withering midday and afternoon sun. They do best in a situation under a translucent roof fitted with shade cloth that gives them bright but filtered sunlight all day. Watering should be very sparing and only during the late autumn and early winter months, e.g. no more frequently than once in two weeks, even once every three to four weeks, but when watered, they should be drenched so that the water reaches the bottom of the container. A diluted fertiliser can be added to the water, one with trace elements and a low nitrogen high potassium content is best. It is also best to water in the mornings so that the excess water evaporates and the upper layers of soil dry out fairly quickly. Lithops like nothing less than wet, soggy soil. Although the plant will survive mild frost it should be protected from severe cold and prolonged frost conditions. Plants can be hand pollinated, using a small paint brush. Remember always to cross different clones as the plants are self-sterile. The seed will remain viable for many years provided it is stored in a cool dry place.

Lithops optica seeds germinate readily. It is best sown during the warmer summer months when germination is rapid. Sow the seed evenly in sandy free-draining soil with little or no organic matter in it, and cover with a very thin layer of fine sand. This layer acts to support the young seedling after germination. Because the seed is so fine, it is best to water gently with a very fine rose, or to plunge the seed tray into a tray of water and allow the water to seep upwards to avoid displacing the seed. Place the seedling trays in a warm sunny position, keep them moist but not soggy and add a fungicide with each watering. Humidity can be increased by placing a sheet of fibre-glass or glass over the tray, but raised slightly at one end to allow for some air movement. Germination occurs within 3 weeks and the seedlings develop rapidly. After germination, if you have been watering from below, don't do it anymore. Reduce watering so that the top 6mm layer may dry out but not the soil below. Excessive watering during this period may cause damping off of the seedlings. After they are two or three months old, they can be allowed to dry out completely for a few days between waterings, and the period between waterings gradually increased so as to harden them for adulthood. The young plants can be transplanted after a year, and flowering can be achieved within 3-4 years. Take note that not all the seed will germinate immediately and you may find seedlings appearing months, even a year later.

It is also possible to divide a multiheaded plant, but lithops prefer to grow clustered together and many growers prefer to leave them undisturbed to see how large a cluster can get. To separate a cluster, lift the plant, carefully cut through the rootstock and replant them immediately.