bryan3 wrote:Looks like a typical Vaccinium arboreum (Sparkleberry or Farkleberry tree).
It is our tallest growing blueberry, but the fruits are small and not very tasty.
I see what you mean after using Google Images to find some Vaccinium Arboreum trunks like this one.
What about habitat? The samples I've found were universally on hillsides near the top. About 1000 ft above sea level and pretty rough terrain. Sort of rounded but very hilly. The soil is semi loose and fairly rocky. With quite a bit of the famous red dirt found in many parts of GA. The area is also covered with a pretty good layer of fallen leaves from neighboring Chestnut oak and some Sourwood.
One more descriptive item is that the twig and branch pattern seems really Chaoitc and busy looking. Thats one thing that helps you spot them among a forested background.
The second image is an attempt to show that aspect... but doesn't really convey quite the extent that is noticeable with human eyes.