Conophytum truncatum subsp. truncatum fragile but determined

In daytime candle-like and erect, at night a spreading flower corolla comprised of thin, straight petals, the Conophytum truncatum subsp. truncatum flower is small, but will be noted by the passer-by.

There is a delicacy to the tuft of semi-translucent yellow petals and more translucent orange-brown sepals around their base. Even the dull green, wavy new leaf skin and its temporary covering husk suggest vulnerability belied by the resilience of the species in habitat, exposed on stony ground in semi-arid climatic conditions (Smith, et al, 1998).