Arbutus menziesii is an evergreen tree that grows up to 30 meters tall. The bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin flakes. The leaves are dark green and leathery, with a glossy surface and finely toothed edges. The flowers are white or pinkish and bell-shaped, with a diameter of about 1 cm. The fruit is a red or orange berry that is edible but somewhat gritty.