Its leaves are narrow-obovoid to clavate (club-shaped), to 10 mm (0.39 in) long, glabrous (hairless) and apex rounded[2] which can produce pink or reddish tips over time.

This was based on two collections: one from Western Australia (which was chosen by Erwin Gauba in 1948 as the lectotype) and one in cited by Bentham as ‘Murray desert, Herb.

[5] Following a taxonomic revision of the genus Maireana in 1975 botanist Peter G. Wilson re-classified the species to Marieana ercioclada (Benth.)

The genus Maireana are collectively known as bluebushes and form an important part many native plant communities in mainland Australia.

[7] Research suggests that, given more investigation, there may be potential for Maireana species to be used for fodder in salt-affected areas in southern and eastern Australia[9]