This is a very large, meandroid or brain coral whose colones may exceed I metre across. Its valleys may extend the entire width of colonies, or be subdivided into shorter series. The valleys and walls are broad and may be 2 cm wide, which distinguishes this brain coral from the Diploria species which are narrower. Walls commonly have a groove running along their tops. There is a sharp break between the wall and the valley floor.

Its very large, domed colonies commonly develop into remarkably regular hemispheres. Smaller colonies may be flat-topped discs.

Another reported species, C. breviserialis, has very short valleys and even single centres. Some authorities regard this as being the same species.