Native to a vast region that spans from West Africa to the southeastern United States, and tropical America. Typically growing in wet environments such as swamps, roadside ditches, and the margins of lakes, this species can reach over 9 feet in height and spreads through thick underground stems known as rhizomes, which allow it to form substantial clumps. Its large tufted leaves and thick stalks are complemented by purple flowers presented in substantial branched clusters with an unusual mirrored structure. These blooms, varying from pale to dark purple with yellow centers​​​​. Photographed in the department of Magdalena, Colombia.