[citation needed] Massonia grows from underground bulbs whose outer tunic is pale brown and papery or leathery.

Two relatively broad leaves appear at the same time as the flowers, spreading out on either side, sometimes lying flat on the ground.

Individual flowers are pale in colour, white, or with green, yellow or pink tones.

They are bell-shaped or somewhat tubular, with the tepals joined at the base forming a short or long tube.

They require the protection of an alpine house or bulb frame in regions subject to frosts.