Unique Features: The Autumn Splendor grows moderately into a rounded, somewhat hemispherical shape, especially with a little pruning. The large, deep green palmate leaves (shaped like a hand with spread fingers) give the tree a textural uniqueness and provide deep shade. Though the foliage is scorch resistant the tree will still benefit from some afternoon shade. The spring flowers are pale yellow with red anthers and held in upright clusters. The chestnuts that follow the flowers are highly favored by squirrels. They will eat the nuts and leave the husks for you but a mulching mower will take care of the leftovers. This tree reacts to drought by dropping its leaves early and starting over next spring but only if the drought was not early, severe or prolonged.