It is distinct for its creeping growth habit and the prickles that grow on the flowering stems, which resemble a ladder.

[3] S. scalarium is a perennial spreading decumbent pale green shrub up to 30 cm tall.

The main stem can grow between 4–12 cm tall, is woody and may branch 2–4 times.

They are soft yellow green above, slightly lighter beneath, both sides densely hairy.

The mature fruit is light green, drying to yellow-orange or tan, becoming leathery-reticulate and bony hard.