Form: This is a small tree reaching in height up 25 ft. and has an open, spreading crown.

Leaves:
             

Arrangement: alternate

Shape: oblong to elliptical

Margin: finely serrate

Texture: glabrous

Venation: n/a

Bark: The bark has a light ashy gray color.

Twigs and buds: The twigs are slender and reddish-brown in color, and pubescent. The buds are brown and naked.

Flowers and fruit: The fruit is red berries that when mature turn black.

Distinguishing characteristics: The midrib of the leaf is yellow. The twig is reddish-brown with pubescence. It is also a small tree.

Range: This tree occurs throughout eastern North America.

Silvics: This species it tolerant and occurs on moist to mesic soils, rocky slopes, and calcareous soils.

Ecological and cultural importance: The fruit is eaten by a variety of wildlife. It is an ingredient in drugs, dyes, and charcoal for gunpowder.