This small tree can reach heights of 16–40 feet ( 5 to 12 m ) . Leaves of this bottlebrush are narrow, simple, and alternately arranged with smooth leaf margins . The bark is white and has a peeling, papery texture. It is drought resistant and quite hardy, although it can be affected by the frost in cold climates. The flower-spikes are generally white or greenish but pink, red and mauve forms can be found.
Flowers occur in late spring to mid summer but some flowers may also appear in autumn.