Leaves: 3-6 pairs of leaflets               
Buds: Large, black buds, opposite along stem

Magnificent large deciduous tree with distinctive black buds in spring. Can be coppiced.
Height 45m. Age up to 200 years. Prefers moist but well drained fertile soils.
Up to 450m in altitude.

Uses past & present: Pale creamy wood that is strong and elastic.

Uses of wood - Hockey sticks, oars, paddles, rudders, billiard cues, cricket stumps,
polo sticks and policemen's truncheons. Also used for veneer and furniture.
Burns fragrantly when green or dried due to low water content even when green (30 - 35%)
but seasoning (to 15% water) does improve efficiency.