The branches were similar to columns. They stood on the floor of the Kodesh - adjacent to the Table - and rose a great deal higher than the height of the Table. The branches split at the top and between each pair, the kanim, (in the language of the Bible, or ksavot in the language of the Mishna), half-tubes were placed to form shelves on which the Showbread were placed. 
The Showbread Table: The Ksavot
Contents:   Part I,    Part II,    Part III,    Part IV,    Part V,    Part VI,    Part VII