A fleshy, root holoparasite with unbranched stem, reaching about 15cm in height. The clustered water-melon red, velvety flowers are hooded and have curved, white anthers which protrude from the flowers. The underground stems may reach up to 2 metres before producing flowers. Chemicals secreted by the roots of the host stimulate the minute seeds to germinate.

Host plants are shrubs including Aspalathus, Hermannia, Metalasia and Proteas.

Pollinated by sunbirds.