Perennial herb with multiple erect stems up to 1 m tall and underground rhizomes. Stems reddish; leaves alternate, blue-green. Flowers in terminal bunches, each flower surrounded by a deep red cup-like structure with purple glands. Sap a burning milky juice.

Coastal cliffs, banks and talus slopes, sand dunes and rocky lake shore scarps.

Uses sun's energy for photosynthesis.

Flowers are produced from October to February and fruit occur from December to May. September to March (sporadic flowering throughout the year can occur). Endemic to New Zealand and the Chatham Islands. Threatened by domestic and feral cattle, sheep, pigs and possums are the major threats throughout this species range, mainly through browse and trampling. Competition from taller vegetation is significant at many sites. Coastal development (e.g., road widening) and erosion are further common threats to most populations. Population fragmentation makes the remnants vulnerable to sudden decline. Some populations on the West Coast of the South Island appear to have succumbed to a fungal disease.

http://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora_details.aspx?ID=125 accessed 13/02/14