Leaves are oriented vertically. Plants are dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants. Female flowers are solitary, male flowers are in clusters at the leaf axils. Flowering begins in late winter to early spring, lasting to early summer. Ripe fruits, which are large, 1-seeded capsules, are common in July and August.
Seeds contain a liquid wax which is considered a substitute for sperm whale oil.
The wax is used in shampoos, cosmetics and lubricants.