Small semi-succulent herb. Stems erect, to nearly 40cm high, more or less purple or reddish purple. Leaves dark glossy green above and with impressed veins, pale green with reddish veins beneath. Peduncles coloured as stems, erect or suberect. Inflorescence more or less conical when young, white. Flowers 5-7mm long, narrow tubular. Cultivated in shade house.