Mikania natalensis is a herbaceous,[1] vigorous perennial climber.

[2] The leaves are velvety grey beneath,[2] and thinly pubescent above.

[1] Flowers are 10 mm long,[3] cream-coloured with purplish anthers[2] and white corollas;[3] in loosely branched inflorescences.

The butterfly Actinote thalia was considered for the biological control of Chromolaena odorata in southern Africa, but permission to release this control agent was not sought because the larvae were found to consume the leaves of Mikania natalensis.

[2] Mikania natalensis is used in traditional Zulu and Swazi medicine for urinary complaints, headaches, backache and colds.