It resembles the European tree frog, but is larger (some females are up to 65 millimetres (2.6 in) long), has longer hind legs, and the flank stripe only reaches to the front legs (often starting at the eyes, not at the nostrils).

The croaking resembles that of H. arborea, but it is deeper and slower.

The Hyla meridionalis generally breed from the end of March through the beginning of July; their breeding is dependent on a few variables, including water availability.

This tree frog species has a larval period of 15 days.

It also has ancient introduced populations in Madeira and the Canary Islands and a recent introduction in Menorca.