The Sourwood Tree: What Is It Used For?

The sourwood tree (Oxydendrum arboreum) gets its scientific name from the Greek words oxys and dendron, which together yield "sour tree." Common names include "lily of the valley Tree," and "sorrel tree."

Bees

Sourwood trees serve as magnets for bees, which are attracted to fragrant, long and drooping clusters of bell-shaped flowers that the trees display in June and July.

Honey

Honey produced from the nectar gathered from sourwood trees is considered a rare find by honey connoisseurs. Sourwood honey is so rare, according to Slow Food USA, "that a good crop sometimes only surfaces once every decade." The honey's scarcity can be attributed to the very small number of sourwood trees currently growing.

Landscaping

Sourwood is a graceful and attractive deciduous tree used in landscapes. Growing only to about 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, it makes a good choice for homes with limited outdoor space. It is a slow-growing tree that is suitable for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9.

References

• Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest: oxydendrum arboreum
• South Carolina State University: What Tree Is This?
• North Carolina State University: Oxydendrum Arboreum
• Honey for Health: Honey Varieties
• Slow Food USA: Ark of Taste: Sourwood Honey