Bark is almost black and is thick with a very blocky appearance. Exhibits one of the best, bright red autumn colors. Plant in a well-drained, acidic soil. Grows slowly with a pyramidal form with rounded top and drooping branches. Bark is dark brown and deeply furrowed, giving a checkered appearance.
Leaves are deep green in summer becoming brilliant yellow, red, and purple in autumn.
White, fragrant, drooping clusters of flowers bloom in early summer. Requires a well-drained, acidic soil with high organic content. Horizontally spreading branches create interesting shape. Bark is heavy and corky. Deep green leaves turn yellow to bronze in fall.