Leaves are opposite, oval or lanceolate, gray green, and have a waxy cuticle that reduces moisture loss. Female flowers are small, pale green and commonly solitary or in clusters at the nodes. Male flowers are yellow, larger, and occur in clusters. Pollination occurs via wind or insect. The fruit is a green capsule which encloses up to three seeds.
Seed production is generally limited until the fourth year of growth.
Jojoba is best suited to areas that are frost free and is not grown in the northern midwest. During early seedling development, excessive cold may kill an entire plantation. Frost may not damage taller plants to the same degree, but it can reduce yield. Jojoba is very tolerant of high temperatures. Natural stands of jojoba occur in areas that receive 3 to 18 in. of precipitation annually.