Cautleya gracilis is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Zingiberaceae (the gingers).

What appear to be stems in Cautleya species are actually "pseudostems" formed by the tightly wrapped bases or sheaths of the leaves.

The inflorescence is a spike, with typically 2–10 loosely spaced flowers in C. gracilis var.

The single stamen has a two-pronged "spur" at the base of the anther, formed by connective tissue.

[1] The genus name honours Proby Cautley, who was responsible for extensive irrigation works in India under the British Raj.

[2] Two varieties are recognized:[2] Cautleya gracilis is cultivated as an ornamental garden plant.

The form grown under the collectors' number CCW 106 is about 45 cm (18 in) tall with narrow leaves that are red underneath, and usually seven yellow flowers.