Forms a very tight, squat, dark green-to-grey woody trunk (caudex) that averages 2 to 3 inches (5–8 cm) in diameter to store water against harsh droughts.
Features distinctively scalloped, silvery-green leaves with highly wavy, ruffled, and crisped margins. Before shedding for dormancy, the foliage shifts to a striking autumn golden-orange hue.
Bears small, greenish, disc-like flower heads (hypanthodia) atop long stalks. The margins feature unique, star-like tentacles.
Utilizing internal hydraulic pressure, it explosively shoots its ripe seeds up to several feet away once mature.
