[2] The African chameleon is a slow-moving, laterally flattened species growing to a maximum length of 46 cm (18 in).

It is very similar in appearance to the common chameleon (Chamaeleo chamaeleon) but has no flaps at the back of its head and is rather larger.

[5][6] The African chameleon is usually found on the lower branches of trees, on shrubs and on reeds (Phragmites).

It grasps its support with its four-toed feet, a pair of toes on either side of the branch, and its tail, and remains stationary or advances slowly and stealthily.

[7] The female descends to the ground to breed and lays a clutch of up to seventy eggs in an underground nest.