It is a dense shrub with divided leaves, the end lobes linear and sharply-pointed, and loose clusters of white to cream-coloured flowers.

The edges of the leaves are rolled under, concealing most of the lower surface apart from the mid-vein.

Flowering occurs from June to September and the fruit is an oblong to elliptic follicle 7–9 mm (0.28–0.35 in) long.

[4] The specific epithet (xiphoidea) means "sword-like", referring to the shape of the leaf lobes.

[2][3] Grevillea xiphoidea is listed as "not threatened" by the Government of Western Australia Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.