Form: This is a medium sized shrub, with a short trunk and spreading branches.

Leaves:
             

Arrangement: alternate

Shape: base inequilateral

Margin: sinuate to crenate

Texture: pubescent below

Venation: pinnate

Bark: silver-gray, smooth to lightly scaly

Twigs and buds: Twigs are pubescent brown and slender. Buds are stalked and resemble a rabbits foot.

Flowers and fruit: Yellow flowers are produced in the fall. The fruit is a ½ inch woody capsule containing 2 black seeds.

Distinguishing characteristics: Aromatic, yellow flowers present in fall, aromatic foliage, persistent seed capsules.

Range: Florida to Maine west to east Texas an north to Minnesota.

Silvics: It is shade tolerant and grows on a variety of sites.

Ecological and cultural importance: Historically, branches were used for water-witching. Fruits are eaten by several species of game birds and white tailed deer.