It has long, narrow leaves that are pointed at both ends and have teeth along the edges and glandular hairs on the surfaces.

[6] Despite the fresh-looking green color of its leaves and its attractive inflorescence,[7] this plant is sticky and has a certain smell that most people find unpleasant.

[9] In Elba Island and Corsica it is now used by residents and tourists to heal stings from jellyfish, bees and wasps pressing fresh leaves on the skin with quick results.

One adage says that: "No vos 'nemoreu, amor,de cap fadrina gallarda que és com la flor d'olivarda molt guapa, i dolenta d'olor."

[My dear one, don't fall in love with any woman who only has good looks, she is like a false yellowhead flower: beautiful, but full of stench.]