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

Conicosia pugioniformis is a striking, yellow flowering, die-hard, South African indigenous succulent groundcover, suited to sandy and coastal gardens, rockeries or pots. It is a tufted, fleshy perennial, growing between 120 and 400 mm tall, with a huge tap root and trailing branches. The leaves are smooth and hairless, linear, erect, trigonous, keeled and concave above, and are densely arranged. The Afrikaans names of varkslaai (meaning pig salad) and varkwortel (meaning pig root), are derived from the fondness of pigs for the rootstock of this plant, and because these plants have been used as pig food. The name snotwortel refers to the way the roots become a slimy, mucus-like mess when soaked in hot water. Several insects, including bees and beetles, have been observed visiting the flowers of this species. The slimy roots and fresh fruits are considered edible and can be cooked in stews. The plants have also been used to feed pigs.