The Benzoin is never more than a middle-sized shrub, sometimes, though
rarely, attaining the height of eight or ten feet. It is not branching,
but sends up its long stems, like some of the dwarf willows, directly
from the root, without assuming a tree form. We often find these long
branches covered with foliage from the root to the extremity. The leaves
are of a handsome ovate form, and are highly aromatic, but differ
essentially from the Sassafras in their odor. The berries have been used
as spice for culinary purposes.