Sourwood Tree Care

Sourwood is a deciduous tree known for its white, fragrant spring flowers and brilliant red and orange fall foliage. Botanically known as Oxydendrum arboreum, it is a slow-growing tree that eventually reaches 30 to 60 feet tall.

Climate

Sourwood is native to the forests of the southeastern United States. It grows in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 5 through 9, according to Floridata.com.

Planting Location

Plant sourwood in full sun to partial shade. Trees grown in full sun tend to flower more and have a better fall foliage display, according to the University of Connecticut.

Soil Requirements

Sourwood requires a well-drained, peaty, acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.2.

Watering

Keep sourwood soil moist. The tree is not drought tolerant and will lose leaves if the soil gets too dry. Water weekly when there is no rainfall.

Fertilizing

Apply an acid fertilizer to sourwood during its dormant period in the fall or early spring before new growth appears.

Warning

Sourwood does not tolerate pollution well, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension. Avoid planting in polluted, urban areas.

References

• Floridata: Oxydendrum arboreum
• University of Florida IFAS Extension: Oxydendrum arboreum-Sourwood
• University of Connecticut: Oxydendrum arboreum
• United States National Arboretum: USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map
• The University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Service: Fertilizing Landscape Trees

Resources

• Western North Carolina Nature Center: Sourwood - Oxydendrum arboreum Ericaceae - Heath Family