Deciduous tree up to 30m tall in forest, shorter with spreading crown in open; bark of main stem smooth, pale-greyish white, sometimes buttressed. Leaves alternate, strongly 3-veined from asymmetrical base, serrated margin in upper half, smooth or hairy, or slightly leathery, short stalk; new leaves bright green, darker green when mature, turning yellow before falling in winter. Flowers inconspicuous, small and greenish, sexes separate but on the same tree; male flowers in dense clusters at base of new green branchlets, female flowers solitary or in small groups of 2-3 in leaf axils.

Fruit brownish-yellow on long stalk, in profusion in October to December, eaten by many birds,

Wood used for household implements, furniture and panelling. Unpleasant smell when freshly cut, hence common name.