In habit, savin is a prostrate spreading shrub but can also grow as a small tree to 3-5 metres. Tolerant of extreme drought and scorching sunlight, it often grows on south-facing slopes where other trees and shrubs cannot compete. Like the other junipers, savin individuals are either male or female, i.e. dioecious, with small, oval, blue-black berry-like cones being found on the females; they are extremely poisonous. The leaves and branches also contain poisonous oils which can be smelt in the air on hot weather, and touching the shrub can irritate sensitive skins. Despite this, savin is popular as a house-plant, with several varieties on the market.