No above-ground roots, but can sometimes have spreading surface roots. Leaves are about 6 to 10 cm long and are arranged alternately up the stem. They may have slightly toothed edges and are pointed at the ends. The leaves exude white sap when broken. In years of severe drought this species may lose all its leaves.
Flowers arise at the point where the leaves are attached to the stem.
Separate male and female flowers occur on the same tree. Only female flowers are shown in the illustration. Male flowers are longer with a furry appearance. Rough, grey bark. This tree inhabits the landward edge of mangrove forests and can often be found at or just above the high tide mark.