Cryptostylis ovata is a terrestrial, perennial, deciduous, herb which usually grows in colonies although only a few plants may flower in any one year.

The leaves are dark green with a central white vein on the upper surface and purplish red below.

[2][3][4] Cryptostylis ovata was first formally described in 1810 by Robert Brown and the description was published in Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae et Insulae Van Diemen.

[5][6] The specific epithet (ovata) is a Latin word meaning "egg-shaped",[7] referring to the shape of the leaves.

[3] The slipper orchid is widespread and common in a wide range of habitats from coastal scrub to high rainfall forests.