It is usually a shrub to about 1 metre in height but occasionally grows taller. The most obvious difference between these varieties is the foliage, with var. Flowers occur in the leaf axils and are tubular in shape to about 25 mm long. Flower colour is variable and may be pink, mauve, red, orange or yellow, often with a pale, spotted throat. Flowering occurs mainly through winter and spring but some flowers may also be seen at other times.
Fruits consist of four chambers each containing one or more seeds.
E.maculata is widely cultivated in many areas and, although best suited to dry climates, can be successfully grown in more humid areas. The species prefers soils which are alkaline to mildly acidic and well drained. Full sun is preferred and, once established, the plant tolerates extended dry periods. It is also tolerant of at least moderate frost. Propagation from seed of Eremophila species is unreliable.