Chloranthus erectus is a glabrous, aromatic, slightly woody herb or small shrub growing up to 3 metres tall. The leaves are elliptic-lanceolate, acuminate with narrowed tip.The inflorescence is in the form of spikes 4-5 in numbers and measures 4 cm long. The flowers are small and white with 3 stamens.
All parts of the plant can be used to make a tea.