[5] Quercus pontica is a deciduous small tree or large shrub growing to 6–10 metres (20–33 feet) tall, with a trunk up to 40 centimetres (16 inches) in diameter and sparse, stout shoots.

Its bark is grayish to purple-brown, smooth on young trees but becoming rough later in its life.

They are ovate, and have a serrated margin with numerous small, pointed teeth.

The fruit is a large acorn 2.5–4 cm long, produced in clusters of 2–5 together.

The specific epithet pontica, refers to the Latin term for Pontus, a historical region near the Black Sea.