Growing to 0.5 m (1.6 ft) tall by 1 m (3.3 ft) broad, in its native habitat, N. gregarius is an epiphytic (tree-climbing) perennial subshrub with small and fleshy, usually waxy and shiny, dark green leaves, with brilliant-orange, tubular flowers appearing in the summer.

As it does not tolerate temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F), in temperate zones, this plant requires the protection of glass, greenhouses, or must be kept as a houseplant during the colder months, preferably near a bright southern window, but not placed directly in full sunlight for extended periods as the foliage may burn.

In appropriate environments, such as Florida, Hawaii, or Southern California, N. gregarius may be seen in outdoor gardening and landscaping projects.

Nematanthus gregarius reproduces sexually and spreads by producing small orange colored fruits.

Nematanthus gregarius has received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.