The specific epithet semicuneata means "half wedge-shaped", referring to the leaf base.

The papery leaves are elliptic or ovate to lanceolate and measure up to 14 cm (6 in) long.

[3] Hopea semicuneata is native to Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo and Mursala Island, off Sumatra.

In Peninsular Malaysia, its habitat is hill and coastal forests, to elevations of 400 m (1,300 ft).

In Borneo its habitat is in mixed dipterocarp forests and by rivers, to elevations of 620 m (2,000 ft).