Pavonia praemorsa is a many-branched rounded to erect shrub of up to 2 m in height. It bears attractive yellow, hibiscus-like flowers. It forms part of the Malvaceae family and is sometimes called the yellow mallow. The Latin word praemorsa means bitten off, presumably referring to something in the plant's appearance.

This is a common garden plant that grows easily. It flowers in summer, likes open sunny positions, average watering and a little protection from harsh cold.