From Latin alpinus , alpine, referring to the habitat of some forms. It is a very variable species with numerous forms occurring in the wild but no separate varieties or sub-species are recognised botanically. G.alpina is usually a small shrub of up to a metre in height but some forms may reach up to 4 metres.
Leaves are often distinctly hairy.
The flowers appear in clusters in winter and spring at the ends of the branches. Flower colour is variable ranging from greenish yellow through to orange and red. Many forms have been brought into cultivation, particularly from various Victorian populations. As might be expected with such a variable plant, its reliability in cultivation is also variable. Most forms perform best in areas where summers are not humid.