Terminal buds are absent. Pith is diaphragmed or intermittently chambered. The bark is grayish and generally rough with scalelike or warty projections of dead bark. In some instances, the bark is smooth enough on the limbs to resemble that of the beech. The leaves are simple, ovate, and borne in an alternate pattern.
Leaves are prominently three-veined.
The leaf margins are entire near the leaf base and toothed towards the tip. Fall color is normally poor but may be a good yellow. The flowers are inconspicuous with both the unisexual and perfect flowers borne on the same tree. They appear in April or May and are of a creamy, greenish color. The fruit has a thin, orange-red to purplish skin and sweet, yellowish flesh.