Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Cordate, unlobed
Margin
Entire
Arrangement
Alternate with a slender, swollen-based petiole
Venation
Palmate venation with prominent radiating basal veins
Key Features
Heart-shaped cordate blade with distinct palmate veins radiating from the petiole junction and an entire margin.
Description
A small deciduous understory tree with a rounded crown, dark furrowed bark, showy pink-purple pea-like flowers borne directly on twigs and trunks in spring, and flat brown legume pods.
Habitat
Understory of deciduous forests, woodland edges, and moist, well-drained soils in partial shade.
Native Range
Eastern and central North America, widely planted in urban and suburban landscapes.
Identified on 10/14/2026