White bell-shaped flowers dangle down in clusters and look almost like lilies-of-the-valley. Highly fragrant, honeybees are very attracted to the pretty flowers when little else is in bloom in June and July. The resulting honey is highly regarded for flavor the finished product is known as Sourwood Honey. Shiny oblong leaves with a serrated margin. Vivid maroon red foliage persists weeks in autumn on its drooping branches. Small to medium sized ornamental tree with an oval shaped crown, growing very slowly to 30-60 ft. Requires acidic, well-drained soils that is light and airy. Prefers full sun and does not like competing for nutrients with other plants. Sorrel trees are long-lived if planted in the right site (100-200 years). Sole species in its genus. Native to eastern United States, but widely adapted in the West as well, except on heavy, droughty soils.
ZONE: 5-9
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Self-fertile - flowering in midsummer in warm regions, and early fall in cooler areas.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Full to 1/2 sun, balanced moisture, mildly acidic soils and good drainage. Tolerates part shade, but with somewhat diminished flowering and fall color. Does not tolerate drought.
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Good.
SIZE AT MATURITY: Slowly to 30' x 10'
