Description
Understory deciduous tree that has a globe-like form, growing about as wide as tall at maturity (35 feet). Plant in a part to full shade location where soil is moist, rich, and deep. Best soil choice is a fertile loam but can also tolerate clay or alkaline soils.
Characteristic smooth, blue-gray bark gives way to larger muscle-like branches, which is why another common name is Musclewood. Leaves emerge as red-purple in Spring, then turn dark green, and finally orange-red in the fall. The hard wood was once used to make bowls, tool handles, and ox yokes.
Ontario Hardiness Zone: 3 to 7 (Find out your Hardiness Zone here)
