A small semi-herbaceous shrub, up to 3 m tall. Leaves 2—4-pinnate, leaflets numerous, rachis (2.5—)5—25(—42) cm long, petiole 2—8(—15) cm long, stipules a narrow wing, 2—4 cm x 0.3—0.5 cm, leaflets ovate to ovate-oblong or elliptical to elliptical-lanceolate, (2—)4—8(—14) cm x (0.3—)1.5—4(—6) cm, base rounded to acute, apex acute to shortly acuminate, margin crenate to shallowly serrate, pearl-glands apparently absent. Cyme (4—)8—14(—16) cm long, generally compact, rusty pubescent, bracts deltoid-triangular, inconspicuous; flowers bright red, calyx 2—2.5 mm x 1.5—2.5 mm, glabrous, staminodial tube about 1—2 mm long, upper free part 1—1.3 mm long, lobes shallowly retuse or cleft, sinuses deep, ovary 4—6-celled. Berry 8—10 mm in diameter, dark red, 6-seeded. Seed 4 mm x 4 mm.

Antipyretic and diaphoretic (roots).

PROSEA (Plant Resources of South-East Asia) Foundation

The ground root mixed with arsenic is externally applied as a poultice against yaws, while the sap of the plant is drunk simultaneously. The leaves are externally applied for poulticing wounds. The fruits are eaten as a remedy against yaws and dysentery. A decoction or tincture of the root is taken against stomach-ache, rheumatism and arthritis.