[2][3] The genus is native to the tropical Americas, from Mexico to northern Argentina, including the Caribbean.

[4][1] Chrysophyllum members are usually tropical trees, often growing rapidly to 10–20 m or more in height.

The leaves are oval, 3–15 cm long, green above, densely golden pubescent below, from which the genus is named.

[5] The flowers are small (3–8 mm), purplish white and have a sweet fragrant smell; they are clustered several together, and are hermaphroditic (self fertile).

The fruit is edible; round, usually purple skinned (sometimes greenish-white), often green around the calyx, with a star pattern in the pulp; the flattened seeds are light brown and hard.