Pseudolithos cubiformis

Pseudolithos cubiformis is one of the true oddities in the succulent world, and a standout even within the already strange Pseudolithos genus. Native to Somalia, this compact, winter-dormant species forms a mostly solitary, cube-shaped stem that can reach up to 12 cm tall and wide. Its surface is leathery and tuberculate, with subtle edges that sometimes give it a sharply geometric look—almost like it’s been carved from granite. Depending on light exposure, the color can range from pale green in shaded conditions to olive-grey or reddish-brown in stronger light. It’s a plant that quietly shifts character depending on how it’s grown.

Among collectors, cubiformis is prized not only for its architectural form but also for its blooms, which are the largest in the genus. The flowers appear in clusters along the base of the plant, usually toward the end of summer, though it can bloom outside that window if growing conditions are favorable. They feature grey-green, fuzzy petals with deep purple centers—and like all Pseudolithos, they smell strongly of decay to attract fly pollinators. It’s a strange, fascinating process to watch (or smell), and definitely not for the casual houseplant hobbyist.

This species does best with very sharp drainage, strong light without direct midday exposure, and constant airflow. It’s highly susceptible to rot, so precision is key—especially during dormancy. A gritty, mineral-heavy substrate and a watering approach that mimics its native arid climate are essential. Like many rarities, this one benefits from being slightly under-potted to help regulate moisture around the roots. In the right conditions, it’s surprisingly robust, though far from forgiving.

Pseudolithos cubiformis isn’t just a curiosity—it’s a centerpiece. A true collector’s species that demands a bit of effort but rewards with structure, subtle color shifts, and one of the most unusual flowering displays in the succulent world.