The genus name, Conicosia, is derived from the Greek word konikos, which is in reference to the conical shape of the capsule.

Conicosia elongata is a South African endemic succulent found in the Northern Cape and Western Cape Provinces, mostly along the coast growing on sand and gravel flats. Commonly known as Gansies or Snotwortel it forms a succulent perennial with tuberous roots. The long succulent leaves of this mesemb are cylindrical in shape. During spring they produce large single pale yellow to cream flowers. They open after noon on sunny days and are slightly fragrant.