Pinus tabuliformis is a medium-sized evergreen tree growing to 20–30 metres (66–98 feet) tall, with a flat-topped crown when mature.

The broadly spreading shape is very pronounced, in part due to the long horizontal branching pattern.

The needle-like leaves are shiny grey-green, 10–17 centimetres (4–6+3⁄4 inches) long and 1.5 millimetres (1⁄16 in) broad, usually in pairs but occasionally in threes at the tips of strong shoots on young trees.

The resin is also used to make turpentine and related products, and is used medicinally to treat a variety respiratory and internal ailments, such as kidney and bladder upsets, wounds, and sores.

[5] In the ancient Chinese Zhou dynasty, P. tabuliformis was an official memorial tree, being planted on temple grounds, and in graveyards near the tombs of kings.