Long lived and elegant ornamental tree with grey to brownish smooth bark and glossy dark green leaves. Pea shaped bi-coloured yellow/orange to red flowers. It is nitrogen fixing and noted for attracting wildlife. Hermaphroditic in nature it has both male and female organs.

Seed is contained in large pods up to 20cm in length with 3 -5 seeds in each pod. The chestnut-like seed is high in saponins, should be regarded as poisonous and not eaten. Aboriginal people have been reported as eating the seeds but only after careful preparation. Bark fibre was used for nets, baskets and traps.

Makes an awesome shade or feature tree. Good for stabilising riverbanks and preventing soil erosion. The timber is walnut-like, strong and durable, and useful for carving, cabinet making and general purpose.