It is closely related to the narrow-leaved Olearia ilicifolia, with which it shares several characteristics including largely undulating and serrated grey-green leaves.

Its leaves are 5–10 centimetres (2.0–3.9 in) long, 2.5–4 cm (0.98–1.57 in) wide, with undulating and coarsely serrated margins, greyish green above.

Its daisy-like composite flowers are white with yellow centres and grow in large, rounded, much-branched corymbs.

[3] Despite its common name, O. macrodonta is not closely related to the true hollies Ilex.

[4] This plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.