Sourwood
Oxydendrum arboreum
Oxydendrum arboreum
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Foliage: Glossy Green
Fall Foliage: Yellow, Red, Maroon Fruit: Capsule Bloom Season: Late Summer Habit/Form: Pyramidal, Oval Uses: Shade, Street tree, Specimen |
Zone Hardiness: 5
Plant Height: 20 – 30 ft Plant Width: 15 - 20 ft Light: Sun/Part shade Growth Rate: Medium |
Oxydendrum arboretum is named for the acidic, sour taste of it leaves. It's commonly known as Sourwood. Also called Lily of the Valley tree, which are similar the that of the little bell-shaped Lily of the Valley flowers. The glossy green foliage changes into vibrant fall shades of red, maroon, orange, yellow and even purple. In the south, sourwood is used to gather nectar and honey. Juice from its blooms is used to make Sourwood jelly. The shoots were used by the Cherokee and Catawba tribes to make arrow shafts.
Sourwood makes a perfect small specimen tree It is best to plant in a protected area away from winter winds. Sun to partial shade is preferred. In our zone, morning sun and late afternoon shade. Sourwood is shallow rooted and prefers an acidic soil that is moist, but well drained.
Sourwood makes a perfect small specimen tree It is best to plant in a protected area away from winter winds. Sun to partial shade is preferred. In our zone, morning sun and late afternoon shade. Sourwood is shallow rooted and prefers an acidic soil that is moist, but well drained.
