Roots are shallow but tough.
The smooth-edged leaves range from oval to spatulate in shape and are clustered in tight bunches close to the branches. The single spines bear small leaves in their axils. Yellow flowers bloom in May, are about one third of an inch wide, and are solitary or in small clusters of 2-4 blossoms. The berries are small, oblong, and found singly or in clusters. Several cultivars of this species are sold as ornamentals.