The specific epithet, acutifolius, meaning "thorny leaves", is derived from Latin acutus (pointed, acute), and -folius (-leaved), and refers to the characteristic shape of the leaves, a quite common feature in the typical plants of the Mediterranean.

In some Mediterranean regions flowering occurs in late summer from August through September, often after heavy storms.

In this case the small green berries, of 5–6 millimetres (0.20–0.24 in) in diameter, are fully ripe in winter.

These plants grow near woods and in uncultivated places, on dry and sunny soil.

Shoots are collected in the spring along the Croatian coast and islands and eaten in risottos and fried with scrambled eggs.