The species is a perennial, often cultivated as an annual in temperate climates, often growing to around 2 meters (6 ft 7 in) tall. As a member of the Malvaceae, it is related to such species as cotton, cocoa, and hibiscus The leaves are 10–20 centimeters (4–8 in) long and broad, palmately lobed with 5–7 lobes.
