This native perennial species is a member of the bunchflower family. It was formerly placed in the lily family and still remains in the lily order of taxonomy. The flowers are star-like with six long, pointed petals-like segments. These segments consist of three petals and 3 identical sepals. There are 6 stamens and 1 pistil. Each flower is about 3/8 inches long. Many blossoms form clusters up to two feet long. The flowers of the side branches are usually male, while those on the main stalk are usually female. The flower stalks are distinctly twisted. This is reflected in the genus name derived from the Greek word “streptos” or “twisted.” The fruit is a red berry containing many seeds.

The grass-like leaves are keeled (folded lengthwise). The leaves are most numerous growing in a basal rosette, but there are some that emerge from the stem. The edges of the leaves are fringed with hair or minute teeth. The plant grows 2-5 feet tall and grows in moist woods or thickets. The stem has many branches.

This species is found from Missouri to Pennsylvania, south to Virginia and to Georgia in the mountains. It also grows in the Pacific Northwest. In this area, it seems to bloom most commonly in July and August but flowers may persist into September in some locations. It does not seem common in this area perhaps because Pennsylvania is at the northern end of its range.