This tree belongs to the same family as the eucalypts (Myrtaceae) with its crushed leaves having the same distinctive smell. This smell is a good way to positively identify the species as it is the only mangrove having this characteristic. This species can grow to 5 m tall.

Roots: No above-ground roots, although it can often have roots spreading on the soil surface.

Leaves: Leaves about 3 cm long that are arranged opposite each other up the stem. There is often a red tinge to the base of the leaves.

Flowers and Fruit: Small (about 1 cm) white flowers. The fruit is not much larger than the flower and is a similar shape.

Bark: Grey and fibrous bark.

Similar species: You may mistake this tree for the Black Mangrove (Lumnitzera species). However, leaves of the Black Mangrove do not have the same distinctive eucalypt smell when crushed.

Location: Found on the landward edge of tidal mangroves where there is little fresh water available.