[2] The pentamerous flower of Symplocos kowalewskii is 25–28 mm wide.

The corolla is fused basally, and the exterior surface bears trichomes.

[2] Symplocos kowalewskii is thought to have occurred in ancient forested habitats, possibly in addition to Quasisequoia swamps.

[2] The extant, Asian relatives grow in montane, humid forests.

The rarity of such specimens may be explained by the physical properties of the tree sap.