[2] The name "ficiforme" is Latin for "fig-shaped", and refers to the shape of their bodies, which is raised, globose and keeled.

In addition, they can be distinguished from most other Conophytums by the distinctive dots, which clearly form angular, (horseshoe-shaped) lines over their heads.

It is indigenous to the Robertson Karoo vegetation of the Breede River Valley, Western Cape, South Africa.

Their habitat is rocky crevices and outcrops, where they form clumps in sheltered or partially shaded positions.

The widespread Conophytum truncatum grows throughout the Little Karoo, but has strongly flattened, truncated bodies, and spots that are scattered randomly (not in lines).