Grows to 30 m, is ornamental, wide crowned and is characterised by the silvery white underside to the leaves. It has a strong suckering habit and is tolerant of soil salinity, salt spray and drought, although traditionally associated with the presence of water. It is adapted to warm, dry continental climates and prefers soils rich in minerals. Although a good volume of timber can be obtained from suitable sites, the properties of the wood of some cultivars are not satisfactory - the yield of cellulose is poor, and there is much abnormal wood. The wood is used for planking and packing, or as supporting parts in furniture made from finer woods.
Green leaf protein - 14.4%, digestibility - 77.7%.
Propagated by seed, radical suckers or cuttings. Ability to propagate from cuttings is variable.