Range.—Connecticut to Florida and west to Texas and Iowa.
Distribution in West Virginia.—Not abundant but common locally in scattered clumps throughout the State, most common east of the Alleghanies. Not found at high elevations.
Habitat.—Thrives best in light sandy soils of bottoms and hillsides.
Notes.—This tree is not important as a wood-producer on account of its small size and scattered distribution. It is well known because of its peculiar fruit.
OPOSSUM WOOD
Halesia Carolina, L.
Form.—A small tree, reaching a height in this State of 30-50 feet with a diameter up to 10 or 12 inches. Farther south it reaches a much larger size.
Leaves.—Alternate, simple, 4-6 inches long, oblong-ovate, finely serrate, smooth above when old, slightly pubescent beneath.