This rather bizarre, perennial plant, which grows to a height of approximately 30 cm (11.8 in), propagates vegetatively by tubers. Its stem, underground, is broad and glabrous. Bloom color: Green, Purple, Brown/Bronze. It is considered toxic, in as much as the leaves and tuber are emetic, if swallowed. The plant contains calcium oxylate crystals. These cause an extremely unpleasant sensation similar to needles being stuck into the mouth and tongue if they are eaten.