Cercocarpus ledifolius is a large, densely branching tree which can reach heights of 11 metres (36 feet), although it is not uncommon to find the adult plant as a shrub as short as 1 m (3+1⁄2 ft).

Its leathery, sticky, dark green leaves are up to 4 centimetres (1+1⁄2 inches) long and lance-shaped, and the edges may curl under.

[3][4] It can be found at elevations ranging from 600 to 3,000 m (2,000 to 9,800 ft), with the preferred altitude varying depending on the region.

It prefers shallow, well-drained soils with a sandy or grainy consistency, and is generally found in areas which receive only 15–26 cm (6–10 in) annual precipitation.

[5] This makes it common on low mountains and slopes,[6][4] where it grows in scattered groves among other drought-resistant species such as pinyon pines, junipers and sagebrush.