Cheiridopsis care requirements
Quick answer
For Cheiridopsis, care requirements come down to this: Cheiridopsis (Winter type) is a genus of small, clump-forming succulent plants from South Africa's Namaland region, related to Lithops and other 'mesembs.' The genus name means 'hand-like' referring to the shape of the seed pods. Cheiridopsis have distinctive boat-shaped leaves with a hinge-like joint at the base, allowing the leaves to open and close. They produce daisy-like flowers in autumn that are typically yellow or white. The old leaf pairs are completely absorbed by the new growth — unlike Lithops where they persist.
Start here:
- 1. Water in autumn and winter when actively growing — allow to dry between waterings
- 2. Keep nearly or completely dry in spring and summer — their dormant period
What care requirements mean for Cheiridopsis
Cheiridopsis (Winter type) is a genus of small, clump-forming succulent plants from South Africa's Namaland region, related to Lithops and other 'mesembs.' The genus name means 'hand-like' referring to the shape of the seed pods. Cheiridopsis have distinctive boat-shaped leaves with a hinge-like joint at the base, allowing the leaves to open and close. They produce daisy-like flowers in autumn that are typically yellow or white. The old leaf pairs are completely absorbed by the new growth — unlike Lithops where they persist.
How to meet Cheiridopsis care requirements
- 1
Water in autumn and winter when actively growing — allow to dry between waterings
- 2
Keep nearly or completely dry in spring and summer — their dormant period
- 3
Use 90%+ inorganic gritty mix — excellent drainage essential
- 4
Old leaf pairs are fully absorbed by new growth — no external dead leaves to remove
- 5
Flowers emerge between leaf pairs in autumn
Keeping Cheiridopsis in range
Water only in autumn/winter; keep completely dry in spring/summer; use extremely gritty soil.