This is a hairy plant with slightly toothed, pointed-oval leaves. As a member of the mint family it has a stem that is square in cross section. It is native to northeastern United States but was probably introduced to more southern parts from Europe where it is an abundant plant. This stem is covered with small hairs.The pink-purple (sometimes white) flowers are arranged in a rounded cluster that is covered with white wooly hairs. These hairs grow from the calyx and the bracts. Individual flowers are about ½ inch long and have an upper and lower lip and a tubular calyx constructed from five basic lobes. There are four stamens.  It is generally a small plant, growing at most to 18 inches tall. It is a perennial species that can be found along roadsides, in pastures and open woods, waste areas and along shorelines. It is a pioneer species, growing well in disturbed ground with alkaline soils. There are scattered populations in the West. It blooms from June to September, often with only a few blossoms at a time.

The leaves are roughly oval and opposite on the stem. The dried leaves are used as a seasoning, but they are milder than those of commercial basil - a different species.