Gluta velutina grows as a shrub or tree up to 7 metres (20 ft) tall, with stilt-roots. Its smooth bark is brownish. The leaves measure up to 19 cm (7 in) long. The flowers are white. Its roundish, pale brown fruits measure up to 7.5 cm (3 in) in diameter.[2] The wood can cause dermatitis and the fruit and leaves are poisonous.[3]