This is the only species of the genus Jumellea which is found growing in Mauritius. It is epiphytic or lithophytic, found growing on small trees or even on the floor of the forest. It is a small plant about 15 cm high with strap-shaped leaves.
The inflorescence is short and is always single flowered. The vertical measurement of the flower is much greater than the horizontal. Pure white in colour with a fairly long spur, the flowers lasts only for a few days. It is very fragrant and is widely used to flavour the local rum; hence the threat of its decimation.