Noogoora burr has a deep taproot and an extensive root system. The leaves are similar in shape to a grapevine leaf with prominent veins. They have minute bristles on both surfaces and jagged edges. The upper surface of the leaf is dark green while the under surface is pale green. The flowers are green and inconspicuous.
Male flowers form in clusters at the end of branches, but soon drop off.
Female flowers form on short stalks at the base of the leaf and at the ends of the main stem and side branches. The female flowers develop into green burrs which turn brown when ripe. The ripe burr is an elongated egg shape. The burr densely covered with hooked spines and has large horn-like projections at the tip. Two seeds are produced in each burr.