Grows at moderate rate to 10 or 12 feet high with an almost equal spread. Foliage reaches to ground if left untrimmed. Leathery, almost spongy leaves. Dark green above, whitish underneath. Long wide pointed oval in shape, 2-4 inches long.
Berries are poisonous.
Pollen can be quite bothersome to those who are allergic. Very susceptible to Texas root rot. Subject to root knot nematodes and brittle leaf.