Plant Profile: Symplocos tinctoria

Sweetleaf is a slow-growing deciduous shrub or small tree that can reach heights of up to 20 feet. It typically thrives in various natural habitats, including moist bottomland forests, edges of pocosins, mesic forests, ridgetop woodlands, and sandy hills. The leaves are arranged alternately, featuring smooth edges and a distinctive yellow underside. Notably, these leaves are both edible and sweet. In early spring, the tree produces small white flowers, followed by the development of a ½-inch orange-brown drupe that ripens in late summer. For optimal growth, it is best to plant Sweetleaf in naturalized settings where it can receive full to partial sunlight.

Fire Risk: This plant has a moderate flammability rating.

Seasons of Interest:
- Blooms: Early spring
- Nut/Fruit/Seed: Late summer