It is an herbaceous perennial dicot native to eastern and central Canada and United States.

[8] Growing up to 4 feet (1.2 m) tall, Lobelia siphilitica has a single ridged, unbranched stem, which is smooth or sparsely hairy.

Leaves are hairless or scarcely hairy, that vary in shape from elliptical to lance-like, slightly narrowing at the base.

The lower center lobe is wider and has two small bumps near the throat that are typically lighter in coloration.

[10] Native Americans traditionally use Lobelia siphilitica to treat respiratory and muscle disorders.

It was once considered a cure for syphilis by early European settlers, which is where the scientific name for the species originates.