Robust shrub with long flower stalks, growing from a low cluster of leaves; up to 1m. Bright green, glossy leaves at ground level are shiny above and densely white-hairy on the reverse; carrot scented; cream-coloured umbels of flowers in globose flowerheads are borne on long naked stems.

Much loved by insects.

Traditionally the dried woolly hairs on the leaves were used medicinally to dress wounds; also used in tinder boxes, giving the plant its common name.

Latin: villus = shaggy hair, fleece; referring to the hairy, shaggy leaves.