Helichrysum umbraculigerum is a fast-growing, erect, perennial herb, reaching a height of ± 1 m and a spread of ± 1 m. It becomes woody with age. The leaf shape is extremely variable depending on its geographical distribution. According to Hilliard (1977) there are five very different leaf forms of this plant. The form growingin Kirstenbosch has ovate, untoothed leaves, 20-80 x 3-25 mm, witha long petiole (leaf stalk). The leaves are green above and slightly silvery and woolly on the underside. They become smaller upwards on the cobwebby, grey stems.

The flowers resemble large, flat, yellow umbrellas with a white woolly underside. They are irregular in shape and vary from 30-100 mm in diameter. Flowering time is in late summer, from late January to April. Flower heads become golden in colour as they age, remaining handsome for many weeks.