Small, fast-growing evergreen or deciduous, depending on growing conditions, a highly branched tree or shrub with a dense rounded crown. Leaves are simple, opposite, elliptical, up to 7.5 cm long, velvety, olive green with a matte bluish tint and noticeable yellow venation. Numerous pink or purple flowers (about 2.5 cm in diameter) with bright yellow stamens, collected in globular inflorescences (up to 10 cm in diameter), have a light pleasant aroma. After the flowers fall, the large bracts gradually turn brown, harden and remain on the tree for a long time in the form of "wooden flowers", which can be used in bouquets and arrangements.