Sourwood – Great Honey and Fall Color

One of my favorite native trees is Sourwood – Oxydendrum arboreum. I love them for several traits that make them stand out in our landscape. Although Sourwood can grow to be large trees, many are found in the understory of our forests where they have an arching habit, rather than standing straight. Their elegant sprays of small white flowers stand out against their large, drooping leaves. But most of all, those leaves transition to yellow and reddish orange in the fall, adding dramatic color to our landscape. Even when leafless in winter, they stand out.

But Sourwood is so much more than just a pretty tree. The history of its common and scientific names is also part of its story. Also known as Sorrel Tree and Lily-of-the-Valley Tree, these names reflect something about the nature of the plant. Leaves of this tree are acidic and sour to the taste, as is the herbaceous European herb called Sorrel. The small white flowers are arranged on an elegantly shaped inflorescence reminiscent of that of Lily-of-the-Valley.

The scientific name for this tree is also reflective of these traits. The genus name is a combination of Greek for acid (oxys) and tree (dendron). The species name is Latin for tree (arbor). The similar term we all know as arboretum (the addition of the letter t) refers to a tree (arbor) and a place for trees (etum). For scientists that use scientific names, these Greek and Latin roots, prefixes and suffixes are preferable to anglicized names that are not reflective of recognizable traits.

Regardless of the common name you choose to use, this tree has several uses by humans. All parts of the plant (leaves, bark, sap) have been used by native Americans as remedies for diarrhea, indigestion, dysentery, soothing pain, and reducing fever, to name a few. The wood is strong, but because of its arching habit, is used mainly for handles rather than lumber. What Sourwood is best known for is the honey made from its nectar.

Sourwood honey is prized where the species grows in enough abundance to be graded as such. The lower region of the Appalachian Mountains is where most graded Sourwood Honey is produced. I have not had the pleasure of trying any, but it is reported to be amber in color with flavors described as anise, maple, caramel and spice. It also does not crystallize easily.

Sadly, Sourwood is not abundant enough in the deep south to produce high grade honey. But that is only one of its practical uses for humans. Nectar, after all, feeds more than just bees, humans, and bears, Winnie the Pooh included. The profuse flowers that bloom in early summer attract numerous pollinators that benefit from nectar and pollen. The abundant small seeds feed many small birds in winter.

But for me and my arborist friend David, Sourwood is most important as an alternative to horticultural trees that are promoted in the deep south for fall color. As a native tree, Sourwood is adapted to local environments and, once established, needs little or no care. And the colors in the fall are spectacular and long lasting (weeks). Frankly, the tree is attractive throughout the year, with its elegant leaves, flowers and overall shape. David and I are on a mission to demonstrate the value of this tree across coastal Mississippi, so keep an eye out for Sourwood in public spaces where we work. We know that you too will see its beauty.

Hope to see you in our great outdoors!