From the eastern US, Oxydendrum arboreum is a large, slow-growing, deciduous shrub or small tree with a narrow crown, grown for its stunning autumn colour. The long, finely toothed leaves are glossy green, turning brilliant red in autumn. In August and September the shrub bears large panicles of small, slightly fragrant, urn-shaped white flowers, rather like those of pieris; these are followed by small silvery capsules which give a lacy effect against the brilliant autumn foliage. Sourwood is named for the sourness of its leaves and grey bark, but the flowers are attractive to bees and the nectar makes a famous honey.
Site: Sheltered Soil: Moist but well drained acid soil Position: Full sun, partial shade, full shade Season of interest: Late summer and autumn Hardiness: Very hardy Height: up to 50’ (15m) Spread: 26’ (8m)
