Due to the close resemblance of its flowers to those of Acacia, it was initially described as a wattle, a name which is now applied more appropriately to some true Acacia species.

It grows naturally as a bushy shrub or small tree to 10 m high in protected moist gullies, usually in close proximity to creeks.

This plant is frost tender when young and grows best in a shaded position in well-composted soil. It requires plenty of moisture.

The serrated leaves are a distinctive and attractive feature of this plant.

Flowering occurs in October and November with subsequent fruits in small hairy capsules produced in globular clusters.