Protea nitida is a slow-growing tree, with very thick white-grey bark, that varies considerably in height.

[4] Large, bisexual flower heads appear all through the year, especially in winter, and bear sweet nectar.

Throughout their distribution, a dwarf, multi-stemmed form with narrow green leaves also occurs—at one point regarded as a distinct species, Protea reticulata.

It grows on mountain slopes of all elevations and in the right conditions, they can form large open woodlands.

Though they are not threatened, in many areas they have been cleared for timber, often to be replaced by commercial pine plantations.