Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, evergreen
Shape
Oblanceolate to elliptic, unlobed
Margin
Finely serrate
Arrangement
Alternate on short petioles
Venation
Pinnate with moderately prominent veins
Key Features
Leathery, thick texture with glossy upper surfaces and finely serrated margins
Description
An evergreen tree reaching up to 60 feet with smooth, dark bark and large, showy white flowers appearing in summer
Habitat
Wetlands, swamps, and acidic lowland forests in full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Southeastern coastal plain of the United States
Identified on 10/17/2026