Sourwood

Sourwood or sorrel tree is a deciduous understory tree that is native to the eastern United States. Truly a tree for all seasons, sourwood is one of our most beautiful natives and is ideal as a small specimen tree. It has gray bark on mature trees and finely-toothed, glossy green leaves that have a sour taste, hence the name. Leaves produce consistently excellent fall color, typically turning crimson red. Waxy, lily of the valley-like white flowers bloom on slender, drooping, one sided terminal panicles in early summer. Flowers are quite attractive to bees. Sourwood honey is a highly prized local product.