Large specimens have been observed growing in coves and richer slopes mixed with tuliptree, chestnut oak, hickory, and red oak. Sourwood, sumac, black tupelo, scarlet oak, and sassafras are the major sources of red color fall color in the Ohio landscape. Leaves are ovate to lanceolate in shape with slightly toothed margins. Leaves are glabrous, lustrous green on the upper surface, and lighter green and slightly pubescent on the veins beneath. Foliage generally turns a deep crimson in the fall and has a decidedly acid taste.
Winter buds are small and imbricate with three outer scales.
The strong, straight first year twigs are often a bright red. The bark is thin, light gray, and divided into narrow, shallow ridges. Flowers open in July or August. They provide storehouses of nectar from which bees make excellent honey. Fruit is grayish and matures in September or October.