Cerochlamys pachyphylla

Cerochlamys pachyphylla, in Afrikaans known as pronkvingertjies (little flaunt fingers), is a clump-forming leaf succulent. The Cerochlamys genus used to be reported as monotypic, comprising only this single species but has subsequently been extended to four species.

Some young, red and fleshy fruit capsules, as well as pale grey desiccated ones from a season earlier, are visible on the plant in picture. Each capsule has five locules. The locule has a broad, expanding keel, but no valve wings. When the capsule opens, the valve only reaches a vertical position. The seeds are ovoid and slightly rough.

C. pachyphylla is endemic to a region in the west of the Little Karoo. It grows on rocky outcrops of sandstone and conglomerate in various veld types. The plant is not considered threatened in habitat early in the twenty first century.

Being a winter rainfall plant, usually receiving little rain, suggests the indications for watering to growers. It is not a difficult plant to grow, either from seed or cuttings by dividing clumps. A container receiving sun or a well-drained rockery in a sunny place should yield good results (Frandsen, 2017; Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2015; Smith, et al, 1998; www.redlist.sanbi.org).