Melicytus crassifolius is a compact hardy shrub native to both the North and South Islands of New Zealand where it is typically found along coastal lowlands in open scrub areas, cliff faces, stable sand dunes, and gravelly river flats up to 300 m.a.s.l.

It is heavily-branched, with arching stems that taper at the tips to a sharp point. The small bright olive green leaves are teardrop shaped. Melicytus crassifolius small, greenish, bell-shaped flowers appear underneath branches in summer, They form in clusters along the branches. The fruit is small bright white berries and they develop late summer until early winter. Usually, a blue spot appears on the berry with age.