The leaves are egg-shaped with the narrower end towards the base, 2–3.5 mm (0.079–0.138 in) long and 1.5–2.5 mm (0.059–0.098 in) wide, the upper surface and covered with warty glands, the lower surface densely covered with silvery scales.

The petals are elliptical, about 2.5 mm (0.098 in) long and covered with silvery to rust-coloured scales on the back.

[3][4] Phebalium festivum was first formally described in 1998 by Paul Wilson in the journal Nuytsia from specimens collected at Flagstaff Hill near Eaglehawk in 1952.

[3][5] The specific epithet refers to the "pleasant aspect of the plant when in flower".

[3] Phebalium festivum grows in forest near Bendigo in western Victoria.