[4] The Takhtajan system places it in the family Flacourtiaceae,[6] which is considered defunct by the Angiosperm Phylogeny Group.

The flowers are small, yellowish, produced on racemes 1–3 cm (0.39–1.18 in) long, usually dioecious,[7] and have a strong scent.

[9] Xylosma foliage is used as food by the caterpillars of some lepidoptera, such as the rustic (Cupha erymanthis), which feeds on X. congesta (syn.

Xylosma congesta is the species usually seen in garden hedges and in road landscaping, despite the fact it bears thorns.

[10] In addition, a medicinal extract is made from its young leaves that acts as antispasmodic, narcotic, and sedative.