Shelves step outward as they descend - 11 in at the top, 18 in in the middle, 23 in at the base - so a tall plant on the bottom row is not shaded by the one above it. Each holds 11 lbs and the stand 33 lbs in total. Fir wood keeps the weight at 3.5 lbs, light enough to move indoors when frost is forecast. Overall it measures 23 x 10 x 28.5 in, narrow enough for a balcony rail or a hallway. Assembly is required and an instruction sheet is included.