Members of the Androcymbium genus are low, short-stemmed to stemless perennials with leaves spreading on the ground. Species of the genus are short-stemmed or stemless reaching a height of 15cm. All species have an ovoid corm (a corm unlike a bulb, is a stem that is swollen and modified for storage, flattened on top and slightly concave on the bottom: when upon being cut, the corm appears solid). The most noticeable characteristics are the colourful bracts, which are upright, forming a cup that embraces the flowers. The name is derived from the Greek words, aner, man, and kumbion, cup. Species of the genus Androcymbium are short-stemmed or stemless reaching a height of 15 cm. Leaves are few to several, scattered along the stem & they have a soft leathery texture and the margins are sometimes crisped and smooth or ciliolate or bristly. The bulb of Androcymbium has been used medicinally by the Southern Sothos as ointment for sore ears. The plant is believed to be a magical charm to stop the enemy in wars.