A large shrub (but tree-like in its native country, North America). The deciduous leaves are pointed and elliptical, turning light red in autumn, and are 12-15 cm long. It blooms in July–August with bell-shaped, white, fragrant flowers, gathered in very long terminal racemes. It tolerates calcareous soil but requires fresh, well-drained, acidic or neutral soil. It is used singly or in groups with other plants that require acidic soils.