The specific epithet reflexum is from the Latin meaning 'bent backwards', referring to the flower petals.

[2] Xanthophyllum reflexum grows up to 16 metres (50 ft) tall with a trunk diameter of up to 20 centimetres (10 in).

The smooth bark is whitish brown or greenish yellow.

The flowers are yellowish white, drying dark red.

[2] Xanthophyllum reflexum is endemic to Borneo and confined to Sarawak.