Variable compact shrublet up to 40cm. Leaves are 3-nate. The pink to very pale-pink tightly packed flower heads with protruding black stamens make this species instantly recognizable.

Flower colour is provided by bracts and sepals which cover the corolla and give the flower a frothy appearance; corolla is almost urn-shaped, white, pale pink or colourless; exserted anthers have appendages.

Latin: spuma = foam, froth; referring to froth-like appearance of the flowers.