- Broadleaf deciduous tree or large shrub, 10-20 ft (3-6 m) tall, multistemmed, shrubby, spreading, sprawling and vine-like in forest shade but bushy and dense in sun. Leaves opposite, simple, almost circular in outline, 6-12 cm across, heart-shaped at base, (5)7 to 9(11) lobed, lobes unequal or doubly toothed. In sun develops red, orange, and yellow fall colors. Flowers in clusters of 3-6, perfect or staminate (male), long stalk, sepals deep red, petals greenish white, 6-10 stamens. Fruits 4 cm long, wings horizontally spread, deep red at maturity.
- Sun or deep shade. Prefers moist, shady situations, but tolerates sun.
- Hardy to USDA Zone (4) 5 Found in moist woods and along stream banks from British Columbia south to northern California.