The tree is strongly branched resulting in a dense, crown shaped habit that extends close to the ground.

Z. abelicea produces perfect hermaphroditic flowers which are small and scented, and pollination is therefore thought to be achieved by insects.

Because of its tough nature, it was formerly the most preferred wood for making the traditional Cretan shepherd's versatile crook Greek: katsouna.

Today it is forbidden by law to use Z. abelitsia for making a shepherd's crook, since it is made of an entire young tree.

[citation needed] The International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species endangered (EN) – very high risk of extinction in the wild.