[1] The Latin species name of this plant, "inerme", actually means "unarmed", which is an unusual (possibly ironic) name for a tree that does in fact have thorns.

A very distinctive feature of this species is the way it grows its thorns in opposite pairs, at perfect right angles on the branch.

The leaves, also borne in opposite pairs, are small, light green and glossy, while the flowers appear in Spring as dense creamy-yellow clusters.

They are initially smooth and green, but they soon become black and dry, and remain firmly attached in small bunches to the tree.

In a garden, this hardy evergreen tree attracts birds, while also serving as a possible security hedge.