The tree or mallee typically grows to height of 4 to 25 metres (13 to 82 ft) with the diameter of approximately 0.5 metres (1.6 ft). The form of the tree is to usually have a short trunk which branches fairly low to form several stout primary branches. The canopy is predominantly terminal, giving the tree an umbrella-like appearance, and is moderately dense. It forms rough, fibrous and flaky dark grey or black bark mostly on the trunk that becomes conspicuously smooth white, sometimes powdery, on the upper trunk and branches. Adult leaves are glossy-green in colour with a lanceloate shape. Seedling or coppice growth is often present with conspicuous dull blue-green broadly ovate leaves.