This native perennial wildflower takes the form of a vine, climbing over and tangled in other vegetation. Sometimes it may completely engulf other plants. The 4-8 inch long leaves are divided into 5 to 7 broad, pointed pinnate leaflets.

The maroon or chocolate-colored flowers form in short thick clusters that grow from the leaf axils. Individual flowers are about ½ inch wide and take the form of an upturned keel or scythe. These flowers are very fragrant. The fruit is a pod that contains several seeds. The plant is commonly found growing in moist lowland thickets intertwined with other vegetation. Vines may be up to ten feet long, but are more commonly 4-5 feet long. The roots of the plant are cord-like and have edible tubers that are rich in starch and protein.

The plant is sometimes grown in gardens as an ornamental, but can be an aggressive invader. Cultivars are being developed for commercial growth as a food source. Since it is a legume, it enriches the soil with nitrates and has a very high protein content.