Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple leaf, deciduous
Shape
Ovate to broadly ovate, sometimes slightly lobed (unlobed on mature growth)
Margin
Serrate (coarsely and sharply toothed)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with prominent palmate-like basal veins radiating from the base, reticulate
Key Features
Coarsely toothed margins, rough sandpaper-like upper leaf surface, pubescent lower surface, and milky sap in the twigs
Description
The bark is dark brown and scaly, and the leaves are notably variable, often entire on mature branches and mitten-shaped or lobed on vigorous young shoots.
Habitat
Rich, moist woods, floodplains, river valleys, and along forest edges, tolerating partial shade to full sun
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, from southern Ontario south to Florida, and west to the Great Plains
Identified on 10/10/2026