Elaeocarpus grandis is a large tree that may grow to a height of 35 m (115 ft). The trunk is usually straight and cylindrical with pale grey bark marked by vertical lines. Buttress roots are present even on smaller trees, becoming large and elaborate on older trees.^] The crown is sparse and open, the branches layered, with the leaves clustered towards the ends of the twigs.

The leaves are bright green above and paler below, turning bright red before falling; it is common to see red leaves in the canopy at any time of year.