Pimelea linifolia is a variable shrub, sometimes prostrate, sometimes growing to a height of 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in), with glabrous stems.

[2][3][4][5] Pimelea linifolia was first formally described in 1793 by James Edward Smith from a specimen that "flowered in the greenhouse of Lord Viscount Lewisham in February 1794".

[8] Slender rice flower is widespread and common in eastern Australia.

[9] The bark of P. linifolia can be processed into fine strong thread for catching the bogong moth.

This string, called a 'Bushman's bootlace', is produced by a traditional method that involves wetting, drying, beating and rolling the material.