M. baldwyniana is a perennial herbaceous vine that climbs or trails on other vegetation, reaching a height of about 3 m (10 ft).

The leaves are green, broadly ovate, and opposite, with smooth margins.

[6] The specific epithet honors American botanist William Baldwin (1779–1819).

[8] The plant is mostly present in Arkansas and Missouri, with only isolated populations or historical references in the other states.

[1] Its habitat is forest clearings, woods, slopes of ravines,[4] glades, and savannas.