Crinum paludosum is a low-growing plant that is found in large colonies in marshy areas. The fully-grown bulb is ± 200 mm in diameter, but it may take about four years to reach this size. It is more or less globose, narrowing into a long neck. The leaves are stem-clasping at the base. The species is characterised by arching leaves, which are often described by collectors as 'like young maize'. They are pale green, soft and have wavy margins. Leaves die back in autumn, but not entirely. A cut-off point is reached from which the new growth regenerates the following season.

The bushveld vlei lily has a long flower stalk that carries flower tubes that are ± 120 mm in diameter. The tepals are + 100 x 30 mm and are suberect to spreading. The flowers are white to pale pink with a darker pink keel. They only open fully at midday and are slightly sweet-scented. They appear from December to January. The fruits, that appear thereafter, are about 35 mm in diameter and are red. This plant usually blooms while submerged in + 300 mm water.