Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Ovate to broadly cordate with a tapering tip, sometimes shallowly lobed
Margin
Serrate with prominent, sharp teeth along the entire edge
Arrangement
Alternate along the twig with a slender petiole
Venation
Palmate venation featuring prominent primary veins radiating from the base, transitioning into a reticulate network.
Key Features
Rough sandpaper-like upper leaf surface, sharply serrated margins, prominent palmate veins from a cordate base, and milky sap found in the stems and petioles.
Description
The bark is grayish-brown and becomes furrowed with scaly plates as the tree matures. Leaves are remarkably variable on the same tree, sometimes entire and unlobed like this specimen, or deeply lobed with mitten-like shapes.
Habitat
Typically found in rich, moist soils of deciduous forests, along streams, floodplain woods, and forest edges. Prefers partial to full sun exposure.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, stretching from southern Ontario south to Florida, and west to the Great Plains.