Ohio State Tree

Leaf: Opposite, palmately compound with 5 leaflets. Oval to obovate leaflets are 3 to 6 inches long with a serrated margin, rachis about as long as leaflets. Dark green above and paler below. Strong fetid odor when crushed.

Flower: Light yellow, in large, 4 to 7 inch, showy, upright clusters. Stamens are longer than petals. Appear in April to May.

Fruit: Prickly, leathery husk enclosing usually 1 smooth chestnut brown seed (1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter). Borne on a stout stalk and mature in October.

Twig: Stout, with a large shield shaped leaf scar. Fetid odor when broken. Terminal buds are large, orangish brown with keeled scales. Opposite lateral buds are much smaller.

Bark: Initially smooth, ashy gray but later developing corky, scaly patches, becoming quite rough and darker gray.

Form: Upright, medium sized tree, 60 to 80 feet tall, 2 feet in diameter. Oblong crown with pendulous up turning branches.