Dainty cormous geophyte up to 30cm. Leaf single, linear, channelled, trailing above, exceeding length of flower stem. Flowers have a wide central cup, are extremely variable in colour ranging from maroon to violet to orange and white, with contrasting edges; usually foetid smelling; enclosed by green attenuate spathes.

Foetid scent of flowers attracts flies which visit in large numbers, hence common name Aasuintjie (Afrik: aas = fisherman's bait).