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Sourwood

Oxydendrum arboreum

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) is a tree in the Ericaceae family. Native to 18 U.S. states (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center distribution data). Hardy in zones 5a–9a. Mature size 40'–100'. Blooms Apr–Aug.

// QUICK FACTS
Family
Ericaceae
Group
tree
Native range
Native to 18 U.S. states, including AL, FL, GA, IL, IN, KY…
USDA hardiness
Zones 5a–9a
Mature size
40'–100'
Sun
Part shade
Water
Low · xeric
Bloom
Apr–Aug
Wildlife value
High — pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role
famous honey tree · sourwood honey · brilliant fall
Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum)
Oxydendrum arboreum — Sourwood. Photo by TVA photo. Transferred from en.wikipedia to Commons by Atmoz using CommonsHelper. via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) is a tree in the Ericaceae family. Native to 18 U.S. states (Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center distribution data). Hardy in zones 5a–9a. Mature size 40'–100'. Blooms Apr–Aug. Low water use makes it a strong candidate for xeric and drought-conscious plantings.

Why it's on this list: famous honey tree · sourwood honey · brilliant fall. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, sourwood pairs naturally with: American Holly (Ilex opaca), American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), Black Cherry (Prunus serotina), Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia).

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