This small, slow growing tree only produces seeds in years of abundant rain. It can grow to 5 m tall. No above-ground roots. A spreading shrub with glossy, dark green leaves which are about 5 cm long and arranged opposite each other. The most distinctive characteristic of the leaf is that the middle vein is slightly off-centre.
Flowers are small and white.
The tree gets its name from its hard, wrinkly seed pods. Occurs high in the intertidal zone in places that have a high freshwater input. Often found in the shade of other trees.