African mallow has leaves that are 3-lobed, triangular to elliptical, and palmately veined. They measure up to 3 inches (7.6 cm) in length. The leaves are unevenly toothed and emit a distinct aroma when bruised. The upper surface is hairy and rough, with hairs along the veins on both faces. The leaves often feel somewhat sticky.

African mallow flowers are small, measuring approximately 1 - 1.5 inches (2.5 - 3.8 cm) across, and typically appear singly or in pairs at the leaf axils. Each bloom features five distinct petals that exhibit a two-toned coloration: a pale pink overall with pronounced dark pink veining near the base. These flowers bloom prolifically from spring through fall, offering vibrant visual interest throughout the growing season.

African mallow's stem is partially woody and exhibits a bristly, hairy texture. These upright, branched stems transition in color from green to reddish-brown, eventually becoming greyish-brown with age. Notably sturdy, the stem's robust structure enhances plant stability. The bark's maturity brings a prominent rough texture, making it distinctive. Branches display a robust, upright growth pattern ensuring a bushy appearance, with stems generally measuring up to 3 feet (90 cm) in height and around 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) in thickness.

The fruit of african mallow is a distinctive structure, resulting from its unique 9-15 compartmentalization. Each chamber houses seeds and is integral to the fruit's overall form. When mature, the fruit's exterior exhibits a texture that can best be described as rough or 'scabrous', giving away its adaptative purpose for seed dispersal. The fruit’s shape is typically consistent with a capsule morphology. While the size is not specified, capsules generally are not overly large, and the coloration can be presumed to be in harmony with the plant's overall color palette, possibly ranging from green to brown as it matures. The rough texture and multi-chambered design are key identification markers for enthusiasts to observe.