Xanthostemon chrysanthus is as a tree growing up to 25m high, and the rough-barked trunk may be buttressed. In its preferred habitat alongside rainforest creeks, the trunk will often be gnarled and twisted. It has a dense crown, with the dark glossy green leaves clustered towards the ends of the branches. The simple (i.e. without lobes or divisions) leaves are arranged alternately or in whorls. They are generally elliptic and measure up to 22 cm (8.7 in) long by 9.5 cm (3.7 in) wide.