This restricted range Namibian endemic has an extent of occurrence (EOO) of 188 km² and area of occupancy (AOO) of 32 km². A 30–35% decline to the population is inferred to have taken place since 1994 (one generation) from observed losses of individuals to climate change and illegal collection.  Future decline from climate change, ongoing collecting pressure, and habitat degradation linked to the construction of green hydrogen projects for the Southern Corridor Development Initiative is predicted to cause a further 30–40% population loss over the next two generations (60 years). It therefore qualifies for listing as Endangered under criterion A.

This species is endemic to the southern Namib Desert. It is restricted to a small area south of the town of Lüderitz within the Tsau//Khaeb (Sperrgebiet) National Park.

There are five subpopulations known, two of which occur close to a road and are declining as a result of opportunistic collection by tourists. Approximately one third of the population was lost to drought related mortality between 2015 and 2022. Future decline from climate change and ongoing collecting pressure is expected.

A slow growing succulent with a suspected generation length of at least 30 years, it typically grows in crevices on dolomite, limestone and quarzitic outcrops, slopes and ridges at altitudes between 44 and 263 m asl.

Climate change is a significant threat to this species. It experienced severe declines since 2015 due to the worst drought on record, with extensive mortality of mature individuals observed.  Predictions of future climate change include further increases in the annual average temperature, ranging between 1.4°C and 2.4°C by 2050. This rise is expected to lead to unbearably hot temperatures throughout significant portions of the year (van Wilgen 2017) and to cause further mortality of mature individuals. It is also threatened by illegal collection. Fortunately mass harvesting of whole subpopulations is not possible as it occurs within a part of the national park that has restricted access and visitors are only able to visit if accompanied by a guide. Despite this, opportunistic collection of the odd plant and seed capsules does take place and, given the slow growth rate of this species, even opportunistic collection is resulting in slow ongoing population decline. The development of the green hydrogen projects for the Southern Corridor Development Initiative and associated wind farms in close proximity to the population is expected to place additional pressure on this species. While efforts have been made to ensure infrastructure construction avoids the area where this species occurs, the disturbance of fragile desert ecosystems during construction is expected to result in habitat degradation from changes in sand movement patterns. Furthermore, the increase in human activity in the area and expected widening of roads is also likely to have a negative impact. Mining activities may have caused declines in the past to one of the subpopulations, but these mines are no longer in operation.

The species is believed to be collected and traded in the Asian economy. It is an iconic species and opportunistic collection by tourists is also suspected to take place.

This species occurs in a National Park. Monitoring plots have been set up at various locations to help inform species management.  Ex situ conservation for this species is taking place at the Windhoek National Botanical Garden and it is reported to be in a number of other collections (BGCI 2024)..