The Latin specific epithet macroglossus means "large tongue".

[1] Growing to 3 m (10 ft) or more, it is an evergreen climber with waxy triangular leaves to 8 cm (3 in) long.

Single, yellow, daisy-like composite flowerheads are borne in summer.

[2] With a minimum temperature of 5–7 °C (41–45 °F), it is frequently grown as a houseplant in temperate regions.

Numerous cultivars have been developed, of which 'Variegatus', with cream-coloured leaf margins, has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.