In the revised classification to create monophyletic genera, the shining-green hummingbird was moved by most taxonomic systems to Chrysuronia.

Their underparts' feathers have white bases and edges that give the lower breast a spotty look.

Juveniles are duller green above than adults and have dusky edges on the crown and nape feathers.

They are mostly dull bronzy green with grayish-white feather edges below and have a grayish white belly.

C. g. phaeochroa males compared to the nominate are darker above, more bluish green below, and have a bluer crown.

[10] The subspecies of shining-green hummingbird are found thus:[5][10] The shining-green hummingbird inhabits open landscapes such as brushy areas with scattered trees, arid to moist scrublands, the edges of gallery forest, coffee plantations, and gardens.

In addition to nectar it feeds on arthropods captured by hawking from a perch and by gleaning from the crowns of trees.

What is thought to be the shining-green hummingbird's song is "a short, thin ‘lisping’ rattle initiated with an upslurred note...rapidly repeated 10–12 times, 'pee-rrrr..pee-rrrr..peer-rrrr..'."