Scientific Name:

Oxydendrum arboreum

Common Name:

Sourwood

Scientific Name Pronounciation:

oks-ee-DEN-drum ar-BOR-ee-um

Plant Type:

Tree

Plant Hardiness Zones:

5-9

Plant Hardiness Zone(s):

Usual Size:

15-30 ft. H x 10-15 ft. W

Flower:

Lily-of-the-valley-like, white flowers bloom on slender, drooping, one-sided terminal 4-8 inch panicles; they are slightly fragrant and a favorite of bees.

Bloom Time Notes:

Summer

Leaf:

Alternate, simple, lance-shaped, dark green and shiny leaves; 4-7 inches long and 1.5-3.5 inches wide; finely serrate.

Fruit:

5-valved capsules that are dry when ripe and release 2 tiny, 2-winged seeds.

Wildlife:

Bees love the flowers.

Natural Habitat:

Bottomland forests; mesic upland forest; mixed forest.

Propagation:

Seed

Bloom Time:

Sun or Shade:

Companion Plants:

Cultural Notes:

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) grows in sun to light shade; sun will bring out the best fall color; prefers moist, acidic soil, but is adaptable.

Genus name comes from the Greek oxys (sour) and dendron (tree) in reference to the sour tasting foliage.

Other Common Names: Lily of Valley Tree, Sorreltree

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