The genus name was derived from the Greek words rhombos, meaning lozenge and phyllon, meaning leaf, in reference to the somewhat rhomboidally shaped leaves. The plants flower in spring and early summer. The flowers open in the afternoon or evening. The rather strange and outlandish appearance of the species of Rhombophyllum, make them some of the more desirable mesembs to grow.

The leaves of certain forms of Rhombophyllum dolabriforme tend to be rough and almost crystalline, making them particularly attractive for cultivation.