Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Ovate to broadly cordate at the base with an acuminate tip, unlobed in this specific mature specimen though sometimes lobed on young shoots
Margin
Serrate (coarsely toothed margins with sharp, pointed teeth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Palmate venation from the base with prominent whitish-green midrib and primary veins
Key Features
Rough sandpaper-like upper leaf texture, coarse serrate margins, cordate base, and milky sap present in the twigs and petioles
Description
The leaves are characteristically variable, often unlobed on mature branches like this one or deeply lobed into two to three mittens shapes on vigorous young shoots, turning a pleasing yellow in autumn.
Habitat
Rich, moist woods, floodplains, forest edges, and along streams in partial to full sun
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from southern Ontario south to Florida, and west to Texas and the Great Plains