Sourwood

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum)

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) is a native ornamental tree celebrated for its fragrant summer flowers, fiery fall color, and elegant, upright form. Often underused in modern landscapes, this small to medium-sized tree delivers exceptional multi-season beauty and ecological value, making it a standout choice for naturalistic gardens, woodland edges, or as a focal point in open lawn settings.

Distinctive Features

Sourwood produces elongated clusters of creamy white, bell-shaped flowers in mid to late summer that resemble those of lily-of-the-valley. These flowers are highly attractive to pollinators and stand out against the tree�s glossy green leaves. In fall, the foliage turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple, often rivaling the best autumn color of any native species. Its bark is gray and ridged, adding texture and winter interest as the tree matures. With a pyramidal shape and slow to moderate growth rate, it serves as an elegant focal point with year-round appeal.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Acidic, well-drained soil; does not tolerate alkaline conditions or compacted soils
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture but does not tolerate standing water
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Fragrant blooms and vibrant fall color make it a seasonal showstopper
• Specimen Tree: Perfect for lawns, courtyards, or feature planting areas
• Woodland Edge: Naturally integrates into forest margins or shaded borders
• Pollinator Gardens: Attracts bees with its nectar-rich summer blooms
• Acid-Loving Plantings: Pairs well with azaleas, rhododendrons, and hollies

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep consistently moist during establishment; mulch to retain soil moisture
• Pruning: Minimal; prune lightly to remove dead wood or maintain shape
• Fertilizing: Avoid lime; use acidic fertilizers if needed in spring
• Mulching: Apply organic mulch yearly to conserve moisture and improve soil conditions
• Soil Sensitivity: Requires acidic soil; avoid planting near concrete or alkaline sites

Why Choose Sourwood?

• Fragrant Summer Flowers: Unique bloom time offers interest when few trees flower
• Brilliant Fall Color: Consistently produces rich autumn hues
• Compact Size: Ideal for small gardens or residential lots
• Wildlife Friendly: Supports pollinators and provides nectar for honey production
• Focal Point: Combines elegance, color, and fragrance in a manageable form

Oxydendrum arboreum brings together ornamental beauty and native strength, offering gardeners a refined, flowering tree with standout seasonal transitions and long-term landscape value.