It is mainly found in limestone montane forests although some occur on karst areas near Jamaica's coast.

In Jamaica, they flower most frequently in May, June, and August, and fruit during the months of January and December.

The habit of this plant can be a small tree or a shrub up to 15 feet tall, and the flowers are hermaphroditic.

The large leaves are dark green with a pinnate venation, and have an opposite arrangement on the plant stem.

The flower gives off a strong vanilla scent at night that attracts moths.