Melaleuca hypericifolia is one of the most commonly cultivated members of the genus. It is a shrub which usually grows to about 2 metres in cultivation, although it sometimes grows larger in its natural habitat.

The plant often has a weeping habit of growth and develops slightly papery bark as it matures. Leaves are up to 50mm in length and are usually decussate (arranged in opposite pairs).

The bottlebrush-type flower clusters are around 60 mm long by 50 mm in diameter and occur in short stems off the older wood. This means that many of the flowers may be concealed within the bush. The flowers are deep red to orange in colour. These are followed by cylindrically arranged seed capsules which are persistent on the plant. The capsules contain numerous fine seeds.