This shrub typically grows to a height of 2 to 5 meters (6 to 16 feet) and has a compact, rounded habit.

The leaves are dark green in colour, providing year-round interest in the landscape. The flowers are typically creamy white or pale yellow and emit a sweet fragrance, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. Following the flowering period, this shrub develops small, round fruits that ripen to black or dark purple. These fruits are not commonly consumed by humans but are attractive to birds and wildlife.

Phillyrea angustifolia is often used in landscapes and gardens as a hedging plant, border plant, or specimen shrub.