Thornless trees or shrubs that have simple, egg-shaped leaves alternating along the stem. Leaves not lobed. Margins of leaves are doubly toothed or serrate. Base of leaves not uneven. Twigs with wintergreen odor and flavor.

Leaves are short pointed, rounded at base; bark on trunk is shiny yellowish and peeling; twigs are hairy.

Leaves are long pointed, often notched at base; bark on trunk is black, not peeling; twigs are not hairy