Pigeonberry is a perennial herb about 1 foot tall that grows beneath trees and shrubs. The flowers are about 1/4 inch across, white to pink, and grow on the stems' last 2-3 inches. The fruits are numerous, red, and almost translucent, often appearing on the lower part of the stem while the upper part is still blooming. They are a choice of food for many kinds of birds. The leaves are 1-3 inches long and wavy on the edges.

Pigeonberry appeals to the eye when it blooms pale pink and bears scarlet fruit simultaneously. Prefers light shade and moist but well-drained soil. With supplemental water in summer, it may stay active.