Buds are covered with a varnish-like, sticky resin and are quite pleasant to smell. The first scale of the side bud is borne on the side opposite the twig. Twigs are fragrant. Leaves are not lobed, but are broad and have a cordate leaf base. Foliage has a dark green color with whitish hairs beneath the leaf becoming dense along the veins.
Less pubescence is present on the upper leaf surface.
Petioles are not flattened but are rounded, or nearly so. Monoecious flowers open in March or April. Since this is a sterile clone, seedlings are not a problem. Despite the fact that the tree is sterile, it has escaped cultivation in many areas of Ohio as it spreads by suckers. Like other members of the genus, it is undesirable for ornamental purposes because the roots often clog underground tile drains, although modern, plastic sewer pipes with cemented joints are not harmed.