Grows from shrub into a graceful, average-sized tree. The growth is slow and it takes very long before it gets a real tree shape. Therefore it is less suitable for avenues and streets. The alternate leaf remains smaller than of the species, it is deeply cut and the entire lobes are linear. In autumn it remains long on the tree. The stalked buds and the young twigs are sticky to the touch (glutinosa = sticky). Female flowers are inconspicuous, male flowers come in brown yellow 7 cm long catkins. The strobiles appear from September onward and remain long on the tree. Besides a decorative leaf, the tree also has a fine habit with drooping twigs. The tree roots strongly with a branching main root. Poor tolerance to hard surfaces.