It was named in 1813 by its first describer, Robert Brown, for 18th century English botanist Arthur Broughton.

[3] The leaves have a hard texture and do not break easily, and measures to be about 15–25 mm (1⁄2–1 in) wide.

The flowers are produced on long arching spikes (inflorescences) that emerge from the top of the pseudobulbs.

In nature, this plant is found growing in a wide range that is tolerant to varying light conditions.

Allowing the plant to grow again is difficult, and they may sit around for about a year or two before doing anything, if they do not die first from gradual dehydration.