Audubon® Native Sourwood

Sourwood is a well-kept secret among tree afficianados. It does not grace a lot of homes, and that’s a shame, because it’s one fantastic tree! This elegant, slow-growing native has something to offer in every season—airy sprays of white flowers in summer, lava-red foliage in fall, and handsome, blocky bark the rest of the year. What’s more, it’s a pollinator paradise! Sourwood is not a secret among beekeepers—honey bees relish the blossoms, and from it they make what many consider to be the finest honey in the world. Native bees delight in the blooms, too.

Native from Pennsylvania to Florida and west to Indiana, the Sourwood Tree is a wonderful part of our country’s rich natural heritage. What makes it extra-special is that it is the only species of Sourwood (Oxydendrum) in the world. Gardeners in other countries covet our beautiful Sourwoods, but most Americans don’t even know they exist! This elegant tree can be found at forest edges, in fencerows, on stream banks, and atop gravelly ridges in the Southeast. It is one of the very first trees to turn color in the fall, so you might notice it along roadsides in September when driving there—even at 55 mph.

Honeybees flock to the fragrant blossoms of Sourwood when they open in late June or early July, when most other trees have no pollen to offer. From their gatherings they make a delectable Sourwood honey that you may be lucky enough to find at roadside stands in the South if you’re there at the right time. Sourwood are perfectly sized for modern lots and the best choice for a shade or accent tree in yards.

Audubon is devoted to protecting birds and the places they need, while Bower & Branch is devoted to the growth of true native trees and plants–no cultivars or hybrids. Together, we strive to unite communities in conservation and inspire individuals to cultivate a better world for birds starting in their own backyards, balconies, or patios. By guiding and recommending trees and plants truly native and beneficial to your region, we can really start to make a difference.

What is the definition of Native?

“In the United States, a native plant is defined as one that was naturally found in a particular area before European colonization. Native plants are the foundation of a region’s biodiversity, providing essential food sources and shelter for birds, especially those threatened by the changing climate. Since native plants are adapted to local precipitation and soil conditions, they generally require less upkeep, therefore helping the environment and saving you time, water, and money.” – The National Audubon Society

Learn how you can help birds in your home and community through Audubon’s Plants for Birds program.

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