Small erected bush sometimes sub-sarmentaceous schrub of 0.5 – 2 (3) m tall. The leaves have a petiole of0.2 -1.5 cm long. The limb is lanceolate to oval. Inflorescence is a  terminal ramified cyme. The flowers are either white, pink colored or violet .

The leaves and stems of  v. major are traditionally used to treat wounds,flambesia and leprosy. The leaves are furthermore used to treat influenza.