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