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Flowers, closely arranged along a tall woody bloom stalk, are each formed by 6 petals and sepals (perianth segments) surrounding a large fleshy pistil. The 3 outer segments often have mahogany brown shading on the back, the 3 inner are creamy white, or greenish white. They look like drooping bells in the daytime, but spread to a total width of 3 to 4 inches when fully open in late evening. Pollination is accomplished only by the deliberate work of a Pronuba moth. Total height of plant, including blossom stalk, is about 4 feet; leaves narrow, stiff and yellowish green, with a sharp spine at tip. Grows on plains, particularly in sandy areas, and extends into foothills. Blooms June-July.