This young Dorstenia foetida seedling offers the perfect opportunity to grow one of the most fascinating and collectible caudiciform succulents from an early stage. Native to East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, Dorstenia foetida is a distinctive member of the fig family (Moraceae), prized for its unusual, sculptural form and easy-going nature.
Even at the seedling stage, you can already see the beginnings of its thickening stem, which will gradually develop into a characterful, swollen caudex over time. As it matures, this trunk-like base stores water—much like a miniature baobab—supporting a crown of glossy green leaves and giving the plant its quirky, almost alien-like appearance.
One of the most remarkable features of Dorstenia foetida is its extraordinary flowering habit. Rather than conventional blooms, mature plants produce flat, star-shaped inflorescences known as hypanthodia—tiny disc-like structures dotted with minute florets. These unusual flowers add to its exotic charm and make it a true conversation piece in any collection.
This species thrives in bright indoor light or a warm, sheltered greenhouse environment (heated in winter in the UK). It prefers a free-draining soil mix and moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. As a seedling, it should be treated with a little extra care while establishing, but it is generally hardy and well-suited to growers of all experience levels.
An excellent choice for collectors of rare succulents and caudiciform plants, this young Dorstenia foetida offers the rewarding experience of shaping and growing a truly unique specimen from the very beginning. Perfect for windowsills, succulent displays, or exotic plant collections.
Caution: Toxic if eaten