Cheiridopsis purpurea

Cheiridopsis purpurea is a compact, clump-forming succulent endemic to the Richtersveld of South Africa's Northern Cape. A member of the Aizoaceae family, it is particularly distinctive for its paired blue-green leaves and intense magenta-pink flowers.

Distinctive paired foliage

The fleshy leaves develop in pairs, with usually one or two pairs on each branch. They are triangular and prominently keeled, approximately 30–50 mm long, with a blue-green surface marked by numerous tiny translucent dots. Young leaves are initially joined and separate as they mature. Older leaves can persist as dry, corky sheaths around the developing growth, an adaptation characteristic of many Cheiridopsis.

Magenta-pink winter flowers

Solitary purplish-pink to brilliant magenta flowers can reach approximately 40 mm across and appear during the winter flowering period. They typically open around midday and close towards sunset. Unusually, the broad petals initially remain partly closed around the stamens and feathery stigmas, with the inner petals opening more fully as the flower ages.

A specialised Richtersveld succulent

In the wild, Cheiridopsis purpurea has a very restricted distribution, growing in crevices within quartzitic bands in sandstone in Succulent Karoo vegetation. It is classified as Rare in South Africa because of its restricted range and specialised habitat, although its wild populations are currently considered stable and not threatened.

Its woody seed capsules are hygrochastic, meaning they open when wet. Raindrops splash the tiny seeds from the capsules, with their structure helping to release seeds progressively rather than all at once.

Growing Cheiridopsis purpurea

Grow in a very free-draining, mineral-rich succulent mix with plenty of bright light. In its natural winter-rainfall habitat the species grows during the cooler months and enters summer dormancy, when water is greatly reduced. In our nursery, however, we have found that established plants grown in pots respond well to regular but controlled watering through summer rather than being kept completely dry. Always allow excellent drainage and avoid prolonged waterlogging.

Cheiridopsis purpurea plants for sale shown in 70mm pot. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images 3 onward. First two images for display only. Colours will vary depending on time of year and growing conditions. Plants may or may not have flowers or buds depending on season.