[1][3] Sometimes the common name big-eyed tree frog is used,[4] but this may also refer to another species, Leptopelis macrotis.

With some specimens, the end of the tibia to the toes, forearms and upper lip have white blotching outlined with dark green or black.

Randomly placed darker or lighter brown spots and patches may appear over the dorsal surface, legs and forearms and a dark brown streak often runs from behind the tympanum ending halfway between the armpit and groin.

The eyes are very big compared with body size and are golden with brown lines and flecks.

This species inhabits the closed-canopy wet tropical rainforests of Tanzania between the altitudes of 900 and 1800 m. Males call while in the water, and are very territorial.