The creosote bush is an evergreen shrub that typically reaches 3-5 feet in height but can grow up to 10 feet. It has numerous flexible stems usually grow outward from the base at an angle. The slender, irregularly branching stems bear small, rich-green, aromatic leaflets. The compound leaves are 1/5-2/5 inch long and consist of two leaflets that are opposite, joined at the base, pointed at the tip, and dark to yellowish-green. They have a strong scent and are often sticky with resin. The creosote bush produces small but abundant yellow, velvety flowers, followed by fluffy, white fruit. It may flower throughout the year after rainfall.

The creosote bush is the most prominent plant species in the hot deserts of North America. Its fragrance fills the air after rain. Decoctions made from its leaves are used as antiseptics and emetics. Many groups of plants are clones. The foliage provides a habitat for species of grasshoppers, praying mantids, and crickets that are found only on this plant.