'Ae`ae grows close to the ground and sprawls. It has small, succulent, bright green leaves and sprouts little white flowers that are in continuous bloom. It is found along the coastal wetlands. 'Ae'ae grows quickly when watered and thrives in full sun or partial shade. It is good for soil stabilization.

Today it is sought medicinally but it can also be found in marsh restoration efforts to help control the infestation of cat tail. It will consume nitrates and nutrients when planted in a stream bed. The 'ae'ae provides nesting material for native waterbirds as well as a food source because it creates a habitat for invertabrates that waterbirds feed upon.