It is a fast growing, branched, succulent perennial with fleshy, linear green leaves in opposite rows and clasping the stems at the base. It forms spreading clumps with greyish stems often bearing adventitious roots. The small 6-petaled star shaped flowers are carried on an upright, spreading raceme during spring (or occasionally at other times). The petals are either yellow or sometimes orange, which combines attractively with the fluffy yellow stamens to give a bi-coloured look. The fruit is a small, rounded capsule and contains black seeds which are dispersed by wind.
When cutting or breaking a leaf a viscous jelly leaks which is said to have a certain healing effect on wounds, skin infections, eczemas, burning and herpes. This is why it is also often called 'Burn Jelly Plant'. Due to its anti-bacterial agents it is the 'first-aid' plant for children and adults with minor scratches. You can either crop a leaf from the plant and spread the leaking jelly on to the skin or take a longer leaf, part it crosswise, cut the edges and lay it on the wound tying it with a bandage.
