It is a compact tree with small leaves and no thorns which grows to a height of three metres (10 ft) and can be found in Malta, Libya, the south of France, and Italy (primarily in Liguria, typically Savona, and also in Tuscany, Sicily, and Calabria).

The fruit of the tree resembles small oranges.

It is an essential flavoring agent of most Italian amari, of the popular Campari apéritif, and of several brands of carbonated soft drinks that are generically called "chinotto".

Due to its compactness, it can also be planted in a pot or other container.

Chinotto juice can be used to produce a drink, and is a component of some digestifs.