SafePlants

Cheiridopsis: An Intriguing Succulent

Cheiridopsis is a fascinating genus of succulent plants, known for their unique leaf shapes and vibrant flowers. These plants are relatively easy to grow, making them a popular choice for succulent enthusiasts.

Considerations for Pets

• Several species of Cheiridopsis form clumps, potentially creating areas where small animals could hide.
• The leaves of some species, such as Cheiridopsis candidissima, form notches with age, which might be of interest to curious pets.

Considerations for Children

• The unusual leaf shapes of Cheiridopsis denticulata, described as "triangular blue blades that look like long fingers," might be appealing to children.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Cheiridopsis N.E. Br., 1925.
• Family: Aizoaceae
• Subfamily: Ruschioideae
• Tribe: Ruschieae
• Accepted Scientific Names (Examples):
  • Cheiridopsis denticulata (Haw.) N.E.Br.
  • Cheiridopsis namaquensis (Sond.) H.E.K.Hartmann
• Synonyms (Example): Cheiridopsis ampliata L. Bol. is a synonym for another species.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the semi-arid regions in the far west of Namibia and South Africa.
• Specifically found in the Northern Cape Province of South Africa and southern Namibia.
• Cheiridopsis denticulata grows in the arid western part of the Northern Cape, i.e., Namaqualand.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Succulent perennial plants.
• Many species form clumps.
• Leaves of Cheiridopsis candidissima are large, greyish, and V-shaped, forming notches with age.
• Cheiridopsis denticulata has triangular blue-green leaves.
• Some species have cylindrical ovoid and trigonous leaves.

Cultivation

• Easy to grow, suitable for greenhouse cultivation.
• Plants flower freely in warm conditions.
• Adapted to winter rain areas and experience dormancy in summer.
• Requires little water.

Quirky Facts

• Some describe the leaf shape of Cheiridopsis denticulata as resembling "long fingers."
• The capsule of Cheiridopsis dilatata can open in approximately one minute.

Species Examples

• Cheiridopsis candidissima: Features large cream to yellow flowers.
• Cheiridopsis purpurea: Endemic to the Richtersveld, known for its intense magenta-pink flowers.
• Cheiridopsis alba-oculata: A species found in the Garies region of southern Namaqualand.
• Cheiridopsis peculiaris: Known for its unusual appearance.

External Resources

• ARKive (for Cheiridopsis photos and facts)
• EOL (Encyclopedia of Life)
• International Plant Names Index
• Catalogue of Life
• The Plant List
• IPNI (International Plant Names Index)
• Australian Plant Name Index
• Index Nominum Genericorum (ING)
• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society)