[1] Both species in this genus feature stiff, linear leaves arranged alternately or in clusters along stems with shredding bark.

Flowers form on a panicle, are cream to white and, as in all members of the rose family, have hypanthia.

[2] They are found in plant communities and sub-ecoregions of the California chaparral and woodlands ecoregion.

Phylogenetic analysis places Adenostoma closest to Chamaebatiaria and Sorbaria, and suggests tentative placement in the subfamily Spiraeoideae, tribe Sorbarieae.

[3] The name Adenostoma comes from Greek, meaning "glandular mouth," referring to the hypanthium ring gland.