Ulex argenteus is a low-growing shrub with an open branching structure. Branches, stems, and spines are densely covered in short erecthairs, which give the species a silverycolour. Spines are thin and straight or sometimes slightly arched. The calyx is typically 7.5 to 8.5 mm long.
Taxonomy and systematics
Ulex argenteus is a diploid species. Ulex canescens, and Ulex erinaceus and Ulex subsericeus have been included in Ulex argenteus in the past, as subspecies or synonyms. However, phylogenetic evidence suggests they are not closely related to U. argenteus.