Phaleria capitata grows as a shrub or small tree up to 10 metres (30 ft) tall, with a stem diameter of up to 15 centimetres (6 in). Twigs are reddish brown. Inflorescences usually bear five flowers. The fruits are roundish, up to 1.5 cm (1 in) long. Habitat is forest from sea-level to 1,200 metres (3,900 ft) altitude. P. capitata grows naturally in Sri Lanka, Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, Maluku, the Philippines, New Guinea, the Caroline Islands and Tonga. It is a shade tolerant, tropical species. Common/English names include Ongael, Phaleria Jack.