I would like to determine what kind of tree or bush this is.?

Sorry no picture. It seems to grow well on roadsides here in TN. It likes growing right out on the rocks here in the east TN mountains. It reminds me of a sunflower because of the size and shape of the leaves. I've seen them from 6 inches to 40 feet tall. They have huge (maybe up to 15 inches across) velvety leaves. It seems that there is only one leaf per "branch." The branches grow up at a 45 degree angle from the main trunk. I've seen quite a few of them over time and it's making me crazy not knowing what they are. One lady told me it was a velvet ear, but I don't think that is it. Anyone, someone? If you do know could you give me a link to a site where i can find out about it.

It isn't silvery at all. It's green, like a sunflower leaf. It turns yellow when it's really dry, reminding me of a pumpkin or squash leaf. It seems also to mostly grow straight up except for the leaves and their stems. I may have to just get a picture.