Stout-stemmed perennial up to 3 ft. tall. Leaves are numerous, mostly alternate, 4-6 in. long and up to 1 in. wide with pointed tips. Inflorescences arise from upper leaf axils as umbels. Individual flowers are greenish and slender with 5 greenish-white, often purple-tinged petals that are curved upwards at the tip. Fruits are smooth, erect follicles up to 4 in. long and 1 in. in diameter.

Host plant for the Monarch Butterfly and other Lepidoptera. Deer and Rabbit Resistant!!