Cheiridopsis vanzylii aka Ihlenfeldtia Vanzylii

Cheiridopsis vanzylii is a small succulent in the Aizoaceae family. LLIFLE treats it under the name Ihlenfeldtia vanzylii. It comes from South Africa's northwestern Cape region. Its range includes Kenhardt in the Northern Cape's Bushmanland. It grows on slopes of white quartzite in dry country. Rain falls mainly in winter, with about 125 millimetres each year.

The plant forms a compact clump about 0.33 feet (0.10 metres) across. It has about ten branches, though some plants have more. Its fleshy leaves spread outward and have three-sided cross sections. Each leaf has a sharp keel that curves downward. The sides bulge outward, and small bumps cover the surface. The leaves lack teeth and a pointed tip extension. Plants rarely sit sunken into the ground.

Flowers appear alone from winter into early spring. They reach about 0.23 feet (0.07 metres) across. Their bright yellow petals often have white bases. As flowers age, the petals turn red, chiefly outside. The stamens stand in a ring at the centre. Flowers open around noon and shut again at dusk. The fruit is a hygrochastic capsule that opens when wet. Each capsule has 10–15 chambers and a broad, spongy base. Its seeds are smooth, rounded, and less than one millimetre long.

Growth is strongest from late winter through late spring. Plants tend to rest in summer, but favourable conditions can extend growth. Give them sun or light shade during winter. Keep them cool and shaded during summer. They need soil that drains well and can grow in poor soil. Excess potassium may cause problems. Water more during active growth in autumn and spring. In summer, give very little water, waiting until leaves begin to shrivel. Too much water can split the skin and leave scars. Poor drainage also raises the risk of root rot.

LLIFLE describes this species as fairly easy to grow. It suits containers, rock gardens, and sheltered alpine houses. Outdoors, dry, sunny rock cracks offer a suitable site. Protect plants from wet weather in winter. They can withstand light frost down to about −5°C when the soil stays dry. LLIFLE lists USDA zones 9a–11 for cultivation. Spring-sown seed provides an easy way to raise new plants. Growers can also use cuttings, though this method is less usual.