It is a perennial monocotyledon that thrives in warm, humid environments like tropical rainforests. The vividly colored spathe leaf and the projecting inflorescence known as the spadix are its most distinguishing decorative characteristics. It is a short-erected plant with entire, cardioid or heart-shaped leaves that are carried on a cylindrical petiole that is 30–40 cm long, usually reflexed, with a cordate base and an acuminate or cuspid apex.