Form: Large rounded shrub often reaching 8 ft. or taller.

Leaves:
             

Arrangement: alternate; simple

Shape: elliptical

Margin: entire

Texture: glabrous

Venation: pinnate

Bark: Grayish brown to brown with white lenticels.

Twigs and buds: It has gray to olive-green glabrous twigs.

Flowers and fruit: Flowers usually appear as small paired yellow balls, but may occur in clusters. Fruit is a shiny red drupe.

Distinguishing characteristics: When twig is cut or leaves are crushed a spicy, peppery smell is emitted. Alternately arranged. Red fruit is obvious in the fall

Range: Eastern half of the United States

Silvics: Shaded areas with moist to wet soils. Usually found on riverbanks and stream sides.

Ecological and cultural importance: Several edible and medicinal uses; fruit eaten by wildlife.