A small shrub of dry, open sites, the stems are upright, and the one-to-two inch leaves oval and bluish-green in color. The small flowers are whitish or pink. They are borne profusely in clusters. It is the fruits, however, that most distinguish this species. Remaining on the plants throughout winter, they add a bright spot to the garden. They are not edible for humans although some birds can tolerate them.

These plants are grown from cuttings.