Melhania prostrata is a robust woody perennial shrublet with erect, but prostrate branches. New growth is usually densely covered in hairs. The leaves become hairless as they mature but the lower surface retains its velvety grey hairs. The flowers borne in summer are a pale yellow colour carried solitary or in pairs. The flowers open in the afternoons. The plants prefers to grow in shady areas and can be found in grassland or bushveld regions. Flowers are very similar to local Hibiscus species.

The flowers are very showy and Melhania prostrata should work well in a small rockery.