It is a tall plant, growing up to one metre (3 ft 3 in) in height, with creeping rhizomes and erect, triangular stems, each terminating in an inflorescence.

It is a widespread species found across Africa, southern Europe, the Indian subcontinent and western Asia.

Bonnier & Layens - Inflorescence tighter, with few (2–5) short rays (to 5 cm rarely more, not exceeding the median cluster ("épi")), less uneven, heads often quite compact.

[6][7][8] The thick, long, yellowish rhizomes of these plants are traditionally harvested to distil a sweet-scented oil which is used in the perfume industry.

There were also folk medicines made from this plant in Europe, the rhizomes being used for stomach aches and the onset of dropsy.