The history of the genus Vanheerdea, its circumscription and position, are described. The characters of the genus are analysed and two species are distinguished. The names of the genus and species are validated: Vanheerdea L. Bolus ex H.E.K. Hartmann, V. roodiae (N.E. Br.) L. Bolus ex H.E.K. Hartmann and V. primosii (L. Bolus) L. Bolus ex H.E.K. Hartmann.