Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Ovate to broadly cordate, sometimes unlobed or with 2 to 3 lobes
Margin
Serrate to coarsely dentate (toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Palmate venation radiating from the base with prominent veins
Key Features
Rough sandpaper-like upper leaf surface, hairy lower surface (especially along veins), and variable leaf shapes on the same branch
Description
It features rough, dark green leaves that can range from unlobed to deeply mitten-shaped. The bark is grayish-brown with scaly ridges, and the tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in spring followed by juicy fruits that transition from red to dark purple-black when ripe.
Habitat
Rich, moist woods, floodplains, forest edges, and along streams in partial shade to full sun
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from southern Ontario south to Florida, and west to Texas and Nebraska