Overview

Cheiridopsis pillansii is a clump forming cactus succulent in the genus Cheiridopsis, part of the Aizoaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Cheiridopsis pillansii grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and alkaline pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.

About

Cheiridopsis pillansii is a species of plant in the genus Cheiridopsis native to South Africa. It is a low-growing succulent with pairs of small, cushion-like leaves that are pale green to purple in color. C. pillansii, sometimes commonly called the "hoof mesemb", forms clumps up to 500 millimetres (20 in) wide. Grow it in full sun and loam and sand soil. In UK gardens it is tender and needs frost-free protection over winter (RHS H2). It works well for patio and container plants. It tolerates alkaline soils, well-drained conditions and south-facing and west-facing aspects. Plant in very well-drained, gritty compost. Full sun.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cheiridopsis pillansii

About the genus

Cheiridopsis is a genus of flowering succulent perennial plants, with 41 species native to semi-arid regions of western Namibia and the Cape Provinces of South Africa.

Wikipedia contributors, "Cheiridopsis", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Cheiridopsis

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cheiridopsis

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Alkaline

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H2

Plant details

Cheiridopsis pillansii size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Cactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Evergreen

Suggested uses

Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cheiridopsis pillansii

Propagation

Seed, Stem cuttings

Pest resistance

Mealybugs

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions