A vigorous, fast growing tree with erect single trunk, rough dark bark and a dense spreading crown. Leaves are pinnate. P. alba flowers are tiny, greenish-yellow in spikes, fruit is a flat pod; the appearance of the tree may vary depending on the soil conditions. P. juliflora flowers are cream to bright yellow in axillary spikes, pods are pale brown when ripe, slightly curved and constricted showing the position of the seeds.
