Sweetleaf is a hardy deciduous shrub or small tree that may grow 20 feet tall. In nature, it can be found in moist bottomland forests, pocosin edges, mesic forests, ridgetop forests, and sandhills. The leaves are alternate with a smooth margin and yellow underside. The leaves are edible and sweet to the taste. In early spring, small, white flowers mature. The small tree produces a 1/2-inch, orange-brown drupe that matures in late summer. Best planted in naturalized areas with access to full to partial sun.

This species is a natural source of alum and has been used as a plant-based mordant for dying fabrics.

Host plant for the King's Hairstreak ( Satyrium king i).