Conicosia pugioniformis (L.) N.E.Br.

Plants perennial. Roots single, to 30 × 1-2.5 cm. Leaves: cauline leaves scattered, crowded toward end of stems; blade gray-green, grooved or flat adaxially, 15-20 × 0.5-2 cm, apex acute, glabrous. Inflorescences: peduncle to 12 cm. Flowers lasting 2-4 days, 5-9 cm diam.; petals 200-250, in concentric rows, shining yellow; stamens to 10 mm; ovary 10-20-loculed. Seeds 75-200, dark brown, 1-1.8 mm, ca. 25% located within paired pockets. 2n = 18.

It is a subtropical plant. It is best in light, sandy, well-drained soils. It suits an open sunny position. It is resistant to drought and frost.

The roots are slimy and edible. The young fruit capsules are used in stews.

Plants are grown from seeds.