Beaufortia empetrifolia is a compact, much branched shrub which grows to a height of 2 m (7 ft).

The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs (decussate) so they make four rows along the stems.

[2][3] Melaleuca empetrifolia was first formally described in 1828 by the German botanist, Ludwig Reichenbach in Iconographia Botanica Exotica.

[7] Lyndley Craven proposes combining Beaufortia and several other related genera with Melaleuca,[8] in which case, Reichenbach's original name would be restored.

[9] Beaufortia empetrifolia is classified as "not threatened" by the Western Australian Government Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.