Annual weed, 20–40 cm tall, stem branched, translucent. Leaves simple, alternate, ovate-triangular, acuminate, cordate at base, membranous, 1.5–3.5 × 1-3 cm; petiole 1.5–2 cm long. Inflorescence of filiform spikes, terminal and axillary, 1–6.5 cm long. Fruit a berry, spherical, shortly mucronate at top, with longitudinal ribs, 0.5–0.7 mm in diameter.

Widespread throughout Thailand in wastelands and marshy areas under light shade. Easily propagated by seed sowing or stem cutting.
Young shoots and stems are eaten raw or blanched and served with nam phrik (dipping sauces) or laab (spicy meat salad).