They are small, stiff shrubs with small leaves and tubular flowers. The fruit is a greenish-red berry with distinct ribs. S.tubiflora is a small and somewhat straggly plant up to about half a metre in height. The flowers are usually bright red with rolled-back petals revealing the hairy inner surface. White, pink and yellow flowered forms are sometimes seen.
Flowers appear from autumn to spring and are frequented by honey-eating birds.
S.tubiflora is not often seen in cultivation except in the gardens of enthusiasts. The species should be given a moist, well drained position, preferably in semi shade. It is a very attractive plant for a container. Propagation is usually by cuttings of firm current season's growth and improved results have been reported when a root-promoting hormone is used. The species can be grown from seed but this is not readily available.