Cheirolophus metlesicsii is classified as Critically Endangered due to its restricted distribution, with an area of occupancy of 2 km², and only two known locations, which appear highly restricted and isolated. Its expansion is limited and negative trends have been reported for the number of mature individuals present in the different subpopulations. Predation by grazing animals, mainly on young individuals, as well as human activities, have caused this species to be highly threatened.

Cheirolophus metlesicsii is endemic to the island of Tenerife, the Canary Islands, Spain, where it grows between 1,050 and 1,150 m asl, on the southeastern part of the island (Bañares et al. 2004). It can be found in two isolated locations: Barranco de Añavingo and Barranco de Tamadaya. Its area of occupancy is 2 km².

Bañares et al. (2004) reported a total population size of 426 individuals: 351 individuals in Barranco de Añavingo and 75 in Barranco de Tamadaya. In 2007, population size was: 376 individuals in Barranco de Añavingo and 126 in Tamadaya (Mesa Coello et al. 2009). The population has decreased by 34.8% in 20 years.

A low presence of young individuals has been observed. Most of the seedlings are predated or die due to summer droughts and therefore the high production of seeds does not lead to high levels of recruitment (Bañares et al. 2004). The subpopulations have been reported to be decreasing (Gobierno de Canarias 2004).

It grows on shade-loving shrublands, on basaltic and phonolitic materials, on ravine beds and crags. The dominant vegetation in such areas are shrublands (Artemisio-Rumicion) associated with communities characterized by the presence of Pinus canariensis, in early stages of development (Sideritido-Pinetum canariensis S.) and communities of Soncho-Sempervivion in more steeply sloped areas. Common accompanying species are Bencomia caudata, Rumex lunaria, Rubus inermis, Pterocephalus dumetorum, Carlina salicifolia, Pericallis lanata, Ferula linkii and Echium virescens.

Predation by introduced grazing mammals has been reported to be the main threat affecting the species. The subpopulation of Añavingo is also affected by human presence, including trampling and degradation of the surrounding areas, as well as works on the bed of the ravine, and by competition with native and exotic aggressive species (Bañares et al. 2004).

This species is listed under Appendix I of the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention). It is listed as Critically Endangered B2ab(iii,v) in the Spanish Red List (Moreno 2008). It is classed as species "En peligro de extinción" in the national catalogue of threatened species, and in the regional catalogue of protected species.

The two subpopulations are within the protected area Parque Natural de Corona Forestal (also a SCI). Plant material is stored in germplasm banks: E.T.S. de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Jardín Botánico Viera y Clavijo, Viceconsejería Medio Ambiente Gobierno de Canarias.

In order to ensure the conservation of this species, exotic species must be eradicated, natural populations must be reinforced and ex situ plant production has to be developed. A control programme of grazing animals has to be implemented and surveillance of human activities has to be improved.