A deciduous shrub 1 m tall, rarely 3 m, and spreads readily by root sprouts. Leaves are smaller, not more than 6 cm long, with terminal glands on leaf teeth and a glabrous underside. Flowers are white, 1.5 cm diameter, with glabrous sepals. Fruit is black, 6-9 mm diameter, not persisting into winter.

Plants For A Future

An infusion of the berries has been used in the treatment of colds.