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Description
Oxydendrum, commonly known as the sourwood tree, is a small deciduous tree that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in the Appalachian Mountains. The sourwood tree has a slow to moderate growth rate and can grow up to 30 feet tall, with a spread of 20 feet. It is known for its beautiful, showy, and fragrant flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The sourwood tree is also valued for its stunning fall foliage that ranges from yellow to red.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Oxydendrum |
Appearance
The sourwood tree features a slender trunk with smooth, gray bark. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong, measuring 5-8 inches in length and 2-4 inches in width. The leaves are dark green during the growing season and turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. The sourwood tree produces panicles of fragrant, bell-shaped flowers that are white and pink in color, measuring up to 8 inches in length. It also produces small, brown capsules that contain tiny, winged seeds.
Care Guide
The sourwood tree requires moist, well-draining soil that is acidic with a pH range of 4.5-5.5. It prefers partial shade to full sun exposure and can tolerate cold temperatures down to -10°F. The tree needs regular watering during the growing season and should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release, acid-based fertilizer. Pruning should be done in the fall or winter to remove diseased, damaged, or dead branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
The sourwood tree is generally pest and disease resistant. However, it is susceptible to attack by lace bugs, scale insects, and spider mites. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as stem cankers, root rot, and leaf spot.
Habitat
The sourwood tree is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in the Appalachian Mountains. It grows best in well-drained, acidic soils and prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. The tree is often found in mixed hardwood forests, along streams, and on rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for the sourwood tree to bloom?
A: The sourwood tree typically blooms in late spring or early summer, approximately 3-4 years after planting.
Q: Can the sourwood tree tolerate drought?
A: No, the sourwood tree requires regular watering and cannot tolerate drought conditions.
Q: Is the sourwood tree a good choice for small gardens?
A: Yes, the sourwood tree is a great choice for small gardens due to its small size and showy flowers and foliage.
Q: Can the sourwood tree be grown in containers?
A: No, the sourwood tree has a deep root system and cannot be grown in containers.
Related Plants
- Erica carnea (Winter Heath)
- Kalmia latifolia (Mountain Laurel)
- Pieris japonica (Japanese Pieris)
- Rhododendron (Azalea)
References
- “Oxydendrum arboreum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f590.
- “Oxydendrum arboreum.” NC State Extension, 28 Jan. 2021, content.ces.ncsu.edu/oxydendrum-arboreum.
- “Sourwood.” Clemson Cooperative Extension, 9 Mar. 2020, hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/sourwood/.
