Musk mallow is a herbaceous perennial plant. It can grow to a height of 80 c.m and has hairy stem and foliage.

The leaves are alternate and have five to seven lobes. The leaves on the lower stem are very shallowly lobed while those higher on the stems are deeply divided with lobes.

The flowers are produced in clusters and have five bright pink petals with a distinct musky odor.

The fruit contains 10–16 seeds individually enclosed in a mericarp covered in whitish hairs.

It is often grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive scented flowers, produced for a long period through the summer.

Several variation on flowers such as ‘Alba’ with white flowers, and ‘Rosea’ with dark pink flowers are available.

Leaves and flowers of musk mallow are common additions to “wild” salads. The seeds are also edible.