The leaves of carolina Silverbell are ovate-oblong, measuring 2 to 5 inches (5 to 12.7 cm) in length, with a rounded base and acute apex. They are dull dark green on the upper surface, finely toothed along the edges, and pubescent on the underside. The leaves exhibit prominent veins and turn yellow in autumn before dropping early. Their texture is slightly rough due to the fine hair-like structures on the lower surface, a distinguishing feature for identification.

Carolina Silverbell features white, bell-shaped flowers tinged with pink, measuring 1/2 to 3/4 inch (1.3 to 1.9 cm) in length. These pendulous blooms, appearing in drooping clusters of 2 to 5, have a cup formed by four sepals with prominent ribs and four fused petals. Blooms emerge from late April to May, coinciding with leaf development, and appear exclusively on second-year growth. In North Carolina, flowers bloom from March to May.

The stem of carolina Silverbell is characterized by its irregular branching pattern, beginning low on the trunk. It features stringy second-year stems and smooth, brown twigs. Younger shoots are light green and covered in fine hairs (pubescent). The branching is pronounced, leading to a somewhat tangled appearance, while the stem's texture transitions from smooth in young twigs to a more stringy form in older growth. Both Imperial and Metric units were used for describing thickness and other measurements.

The fruit is a distinctive oblong 4-winged dry drupe, measuring 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) in length. It bears a single hard seed enclosed within. Initially, the fruit presents a green hue with a notable dark point at the base, maturing to a rich brown color. The texture transitions from fleshy to a more rigid and dry consistency as it ages. These fruits have a broad seasonal appearance, typically ripening and becoming available from August to September. Beyond their season, the brown fruit persists, contributing to the plant's winter aesthetic.