Forms a small sized tree 20-30 feet in height. It has a gray to brownish gray textured bark. The flowers are very small averaging 1/2 inch across. The fruits are approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch in diameter, are colored reddish to purple, and are treasured by native songbirds. The fruits were eaten by the Apache, Chiricahua, and Mescalero tribes, fresh and preserved for food.