Oxydendrum arboreum (Sourwood)

Oxydendrum arboreum, also called sourwood or lily-of-the-valley tree, is a small understory tree native to much of the American east, from Florida to New York and as far west as Louisiana. Growing to only 20-30' tall and about 10-15' wide in most locations, but occasionally as large as 70' tall, sourwood is well regarded for its attractive foliage from spring to fall and its gorgeous, draping, lily-of-the-valley-like flower clusters in mid summer. Beyond its obvious ornamental appeal, with large, glossy green leaves that turn a brilliant, scarlet red in the fall, its ecological benefits exceed its unassuming size. Oxydendrum arboreum's slightly fragrant flowers are highly attractive to butterflies, hummingbirds, and a variety of different bees, and honey made from sourwood nectar is said to be especially delicious. The tree's bark naturally creates hiding places for bats, frogs, and other small creatures, and its canopy provides food and shelter for a variety of butterfly and moth larvae to boot!

Oxydendrum arboreum grows best medium to dry locations with fertile soil, and is not picky about light level, growing well from full sun to deep, full shade. Sourwood is resistant to drought, salt, and deer damage, making it a great pick for forest understories, but also for almost anywhere around the home landscape. As an added bonus, sourwood is even a great addition to edible plant gardens, as its leaves contain oxalic acid, making them sour and lemony when eaten, but care should be taken with consuming too much.