It is common in China, Taiwan, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Laos, Myanmar; Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea and Philippines.

The alternating bracts are arranged in 2 files along the raceme, and eventually turn papery as they dry out.

The small, cylindrical pods release their tiny black and red seeds by explosive dehiscence.

[3] In many parts of the Indian subcontinent it is used as a traditional medicine to treat epilepsy, hysteria and fever.

[3][4] It is an essential part of the Bihu (গৰু বিহু) festival, during which the cattle are washed and gently beaten with twigs of this plant.