Its first description dates back to 1874. (Macro means big and anthos means flower). They were collected in Sikkim in 1872 by Henry John Elwes (1846-1922). Their native range stretches from the Himalayas to the southwest of China. The 25 to 40 cm tall triangular flower stem carries a five cm wide umbel with five to twelve bell-shaped purple red flowers. They grow best in moist soil with good drainage.