The semideciduous tree is erect and somewhat umbrella-shaped with a short, stout trunk and rough, grayish bark. It is very fast growing and reaches a height of 10 feet in 12 to 18 months, eventually attaining a height of 30 feet or more. In mild climates the tree does not shed its leaves in winter. Capulin cherries are quite attractive, both when in bloom with dangling racemes covered with masses of flowers and after fruit set when the racemes are thick with green, light red or deep red ripening fruit. They are deep glossy green above and pale grayish-green beneath.
New leaves are often rosy.
The flowers appear in early spring and are borne on slender racemes with one or more leaves at the base. Cross-pollination is not required. Depending on climate and variety, they ripen from mid-May to midsummer. The pale green, firm, juicy flesh is sweet and agreeable with a touch of astringency similar to wild cherries in some cases. The pit is rather large in proportion to the size of the fruit.