This low, colony-forming perennial grows only 4-8 in. high. Each plant bears a pair of large, velvety, heart-shaped leaves. Growing at ground level in the crotch between 2 leafstalks is a single darkish red-brown to green-brown flower. The solitary flower is at ground level, hidden below the leaves.

A similar plant with greenish-purple flowers, Hexastylis arifolia, has more triangular, evergreen leaf blades.

Host plant for several species of butterflies and moths, including the Pipevine Swallowtail!