[2] The specific epithet means "pointed" and refers to the shape of the tips of this orchid's very narrow leaves.

The leaves are arranged alternately in one plane along a flattened, unbranched pseudobulb which can grow up to 1 m in length but which is generally shorter.

Another key distinguishing feature of this species are the tiny, ubiquitous black spots which cover the leaf sheaths as well as many of the leaves themselves - these are notably absent in autumnalis.

This species flowers during spring and early summer; the peak months are from October to December.

Earina mucronata is generally epiphytic but occasionally grows as a lithophyte.