Erect undershrub, 45-55 cm tall. Stem simple, finely ribbed. Cladodes 25-35 (-60) x 50-60 (-80) mm, the lower opposite or whorled, the upper alternate; elliptic to oblong-lanceolate, narrowed at the base, apically acuminate. Scale leaves c. 13 mm long, lanceolate. Flowers white to pale blue, in clusters on the cladodes; bracts lanceolate, scaly. Pedicels c. 7 mm long. Perianth segments c. 5 mm long, oblong, obtuse, the inner subacute. Fruit 8-10 mm in diameter, red, 2-seeded.

Type: Described from Italy.

Distribution: Originally from the W. Mediterranean region but now cultivated in many countries.

Commonly cultivated throughout the country for its evergreen foliage and resistance to drought.