There are several subspecies of this shrub. In Melbourne the subspecies is often referred to as Dodonea viscosa ssp. cuneata although it is very similar to D. v. spathulata. The two subspecies are separated on the basis of leaf dimensions which may be variable on different plants in the same population.

This is a highly variable small shrub. features that vary are the degree of uprightness, hairiness and proportions of the leaf, flower colour and tube length. It can approach Correa glabra in appearance but generally be distinguished by the rough hairy foliage. The presence of a pair of reduced 'floral' leaves produced at the top of the flower is a distinctive feature of Correa reflexa which may be seen in the detail photo. These leaves may appear to clasp the top of the flower in some forms.

A soft, brittle shrub with ragged-edged, bright green, pinnate leaves. Stems die back annually, re-shooting from a tuberous rootstock. The flowers are produced in flat-topped inflorescences. Individual flowers are white and remain mostly closed at maturity. The flowers release a pleasant, sweet scent a little like orange blossom. Flowers are followed by edible round, pale yellowish berries (technically a 'drupe').