It is a prostrate, succulent annual shrub or short-lived perennial plant with stems up to 2 m (6 ft 7 in) long, leaves that are three-sided in cross-section with a rounded lower angle, and white to deep pink daisy-like flowers[2][3] that are 2–4 cm (0.79–1.57 in) in diameter with 3–5 rows of petals and multiple stamens.

[4] Disphyma australe is a coastal plant and therefore can be found at cliff faces, gravel beaches, salt meadows and estuaries.

The reproductive organs of the plant consist of the female, 5 - 8 celled carpels including 5 - 8 styles[13] and usually 6 - 8 stigmas, and numerous male 4 – 6 mm long stamens, which have filaments that are hairy at the bottom.

[13][5] It prefers especially rocky shores,[14] and both subspecies grow on cliff faces, rocks and on gravel and cobble beaches.

[5][13] Furthermore, it can also occur in other types of coastal habitats, including salt meadows or estuaries[5][9] and occasionally at the back of sandy beaches.

[13] As characteristic of the Aizoaceae family, the seeds are enclosed in capsules, which are closed during dry weather and open under wet or moist conditions,[9][15] especially after heavy rainfall.

[4] Through wind, water or animals that eat the fruits of Disphyma australe, the seeds can be dispersed in more distant places.

[5] As a coastal plant, which mainly grows on rocks and has the ability to store water, Disphyma australe favours dry, well-drained ground with direct sunshine,[5][9] but has no particular preferences regarding soil fertility.

[16] This corresponds with the statement that Disphyma australe is “prominent in the saltiest places”,[11] such as cliff faces and seashores, which are exposed to the salt spray of the ocean.

[17] Additionally, larvae of the plantain moth (Xanthorhoe rosearia) and the springtail species Hypogastrura rossi can be found on the plant.

[12] European settlers ate the bland-tasting, fleshy capsules and pickled the leaves of Disphyma australe.