Oxydendrum arboreum (Sourwood) is a highly ornamental small tree in the same family as rhododendron and azaleas. It is sometimes called ‘Lily of the Valley Tree’ because its flower resemble the (non-native) Lily of the Valley.
Native Range of Sourwood
Sourwood occurs naturally in woodlands, bluffs, ravines, hills, and clearings, typically where the soil is peaty, woodsy, acidic, and well-drained.
Oxydendrum arboreum is native to eastern North America, from southern Pennsylvania south to northwest Florida and west to southern Illinois; it is most common in the lower chain of the Appalachian Mountains. Picture from plants.usda.gov.Sourwood Soil Preferences
It prefers moist to moderately dry soil and will appreciate the same type of planting spot as most azaleas and rhododendrons — moist, acidic, well drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Under the canopy of large white pines would be a great spot! Plant in sun to part shade. It will tolerate drought once established.
Ornamental Features of Sourwood
Sourwood’s weeping, creamy white panicles appear at the end of the twigs in summer. It is one of the last flowering trees and shrubs to bloom, and is great for extending the bloom season of plants in your landscape! The urn-shaped flowers resemble those of blueberry. It’s dark, glossy green leaves turn brilliant scarlet and burgundy in fall.
Using Sourwood in Your Landscape
When planted in the open, it will reach about 15 to 25 feet. The mature shape is generally pyramidal, with some branching low to the ground. When planted among larger trees, it will reach upward for the light. Place it as a specimen in your lawn, or within a wooded border.
It will do well planted under larger shade trees, or in small groups in a woodland garden. Try it in your pollinator, butterfly, or children’s garden.
Sourwood provides four seasons of interest and has few disease or insect problems. Best flowering and fall color will be in the sun. It is sensitive to pollution, soil compaction, and root disturbance.
Ecosystem Interactions
Sourwood tolerates salt and is resistant to deer and rabbit browse.
It is a good source of nectar for bees in mid summer and is of special value to honey bees. Honey from Sourwood is highly sought after! The flowers attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Natural hollows in aging trees will provide habitat for climbing reptiles, amphibians, bats and other small wildlife.
Photo Credit for photo of Sourwood in bloom: “07-20120812_Riverview_OxydendrumArboreum” (CC BY 2.0) by wlcutler
Photo Credit for photo of fall color Sourwood: “20121025_Alma4th_OxydendrumArboreum_Cutl” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by wlcutler
Here is the Signage You Will Find in Our Nursery for Sourwood
