Normally, this tree does not grow particularly tall. The trunk divides into branches almost from the base, with twisting branches that open up to create extensive and dense foliage. The leaves are easy to recognise by their shiny dark green tone and the three nerves emanating from the base.

It is a poisonous plant. In the Himalayas, Malaysia and India, people throw laurel-leaved snail tree leaves and branches into the rivers to put the fish to sleep, which are left floating on the water and can be caught easily. The poisonous substance is similar to "curare", which is used by indigenous peoples of South America to poison their weapons.