A dense, tough, spiny bush with compact overlapping branches. Anthyllis hermanii is perfectly adapted to life on a greek island. It is a dull green shrub with small leaves throughout most of the year but is covered with small yellow flowers in late spring or early summer. The small, thickened leaves, emanation of aromatic oils and a covering of hairs, protect the plant from high temperatures and light levels. It is a typical sclerophyllous plant, considered characteristic of Mediterranean vegetation. It can be found in a variety of habitats, in the forest, along the roadside and amongst other aromatic herds of the phrygana. It prefers rocky sites and can even grows in crevices on the very edge of the sea.

The plant does not have a common English name, but the greek name,  Αλογοθύμαρο, translates to horse thyme.

The older terminal twigs become dry and spiny, protecting the plant from grazing animals, but the young leaves may be browsed by goats (and perhaps horses).