Young twigs are hairy. Bark is thin with shallow, irregular fissures.
Bloom Characteristics:
1.5-2" in diameter. Has three sepals and six velvety petals which are stiff and curl back slightly. Flowers appear before leaves.
Fall Color:
Yellow
Foliage Characteristics:
Bright green, simple, alternate, obovate leaves with smooth margins and pointed tips. 4-12" long. Coated with fine whitish hairs on top surface and rusty colored hairs beneath. Leaves smell like bell peppers when bruised.
Fruit Characteristics:
Yellowish, green, or brown, fleshy, oblong, and thick fruit which is up to 6" long. Fruit's custardy pulp contains several dark brown seeds. Fruit grows individually, or in groups of 2-4. Ripen in August to October.