Leaves are opposite, broadly ovate, abruptly acute at the apex, cordate at the base.

White flowers open in April to May. In autumn drupes ripen to red to black.

This tree is widely found in the cool temperate and subalpine forests.

It is also called Mushikari.

The wood is used for handles of instruments. It is planted for garden trees.

Distribution ; Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, Saghalien, Kuriles, Cheju Island