Brazilian peppertree is an evergreen shrub or small tree typically growing 10–23 ft (3–7 m) tall. The sprawling branches and typically short trunk have gray bark. The leaves are pinnately compound and give off a strong turpentine odor when crushed. Male and female flowers usually appear on separate plants. Both flowers are tiny and white and appear in large, clustered inflorescences. Each female flower produces a single dark red, berry-like fruit.