Leaves are decussately opposite, rather thick, broadly elliptic, abruptly short acuminate at the apex, depressedly crenate serrate, lustrous above, pale green beneath.

Lateral nerves are 4-6 pairs, arcuate, parallel to the leaf margin.

Flowers open 1-3 in axillary in May to June. The color of flowers changes from white to red or yellow.

This tree is widely found on low hills near seashore in the cool to warm temperate zone.

It is planted for garden trees and hedges.

Distribution ; Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu