This small, lovely tree (or bush) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA, IL, KY, LA, MO, MS, NC, OK, SC, TN, TX, VA in the U.S.
Commonly called Parsley Haw because of the leaves, which resemble parsley. These leaves add a lacy or delicate look to the tree that many find quite appealing. They can tolerate poor soil & are a very low maintenance addition to the landscape.The upper part of the leaves is shiny & the underneath is pale green. They turn red & purple in autumn. The smooth stems are grey, mottled with brown, & peel off in patches, lending further interest to this pretty tree during the winter months. The branches are thorned, yet occasionally they are not.
This is a larval host for the Gray Hairstreak butterfly.
The fruit ripens in autumn & is a bright red haw --- similar to a pome --- which is approx. 1/3 inch in diameter & stays on the tree until winter.
In researching this tree I found as many references to its desire for a damp location as to its ability to grow well in dry locations.

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