[1] Pterophylla vescoi is a low shrub to a small multi-trunked tree, growing from 0.15 to 4 meters high, with a trunk up to 5+ cm in diameter.

It generally has multiple stems, and rarely grows with a single trunk.

Its inflorescences are typically short and congested and don't extend beyond the leaves.

The flowers similar in colour and scent to those of Pterophylla parviflora.

It grows with trees of Metrosideros, Astronidium, and Alstonia and the endemic shrub Sclerotheca raiateensis, with an herb layer composed mostly of sedges (Cyperaceae) including Gahnia schoenoides and Machaerina bidwellii.