I am a shrub with stiff branches and dark green, waxy leaves. I have small pink flowers in the spring, which later turn into red, sticky berries that are a favorite food of birds and small mammals. I am resistant to catching fire but can grow back from my roots if I do burn. I can grow in hot, dry places but I also like water and can hold soil in place on steep slopes. I am also very drought tolerant and resilient to extreme weather, and can be a source of food and shelter for species as the climate is changing.