The stem of Pterocelastrus tricuspidatus is usually straight and erect, supporting a rounded crown. Growing solitary, in the open, tree status is often not reached. The resulting stunted bush has much less of a main stem than seen here.

The bark of P. tricuspidatus is smooth when young, mottled with lenticels and grey to reddish brown. On old trees the bark becomes corky, dark and fissured, the stems fluted or buttressed.

The wood is hard and heavy, pinkish red in colour. It is used for cabinet making (Venter, 2012; Coates Palgrave, 2002; Pooley, 1993; INaturalist; http://pza.sanbi.org).