Scientific Name
Cheiridopsis namaquensis (Sond.) H.E.K.Hartmann
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum namaquense
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Cheiridopsis
Description
Cheiridopsis namaquensis is a dwarf succulent that forms a compact clump of pairs of opposite leaves. It can grow up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) tall. The leaves are triangular in cross-section, end in a short sharp point, and are pressed against each other when not forced open by flowers or new leaves. They are pale green-grey and covered with dark spots.
The solitary flowers have numerous pale yellow, sometimes slightly purplish near the tips, and appear on a short stalk in late winter and early spring. The fruits are capsules with ten or more locules. They open when moist and close when dry.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Mesembs are mostly adapted to relatively predictable rainfall patterns rather than extreme drought and irregular rainfall. Total rainfall may be extremely low, but water is available at least seasonally or through fog and condensation. This leads to or allows plants that are not especially large and sometimes very small and affects the way they need to be treated in cultivation.
The care basics are very simple: free-draining soil, plenty of sun and ventilation, and regular light watering in the right season. Yet the difficulties are endless: trying to adapt to the Mesembs' adaptability and follow their growth habits in your particular conditions.
These plants require a loam-based compost with extra drainage material such as horticultural grit or perlite. They all like good light conditions and plenty of ventilation.
Some are relatively cold-hardy and can even survive mild winters outside. Most will survive temperatures down to the freezing point. Some Mesembs begin to grow in the fall as the temperature drops and the days get shorter.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Origin
Cheiridopsis namaquensis is native to South Africa.
Links
- Back to genus Cheiridopsis
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
