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Sourwood Tree Seedlings

Sourwood Tree Seedlings grow into one of the most beautiful native trees in America, producing fragrant white summer blooms that attract bees and pollinators by the thousands. Their brilliant scarlet, orange, and crimson fall foliage creates a breathtaking display that turns any landscape into a showpiece. Easy to grow and long-lived, Sourwood trees add year-round beauty, value, and natural charm to your property.

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Rows of vibrant green Sourwood Tree Seedlings in neat lines on dark soil
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Planting & Growing Information

Ships

Ships Between November 15-29

Planting Zone

5-9

Height at Maturity

Over 25 Feet

Water Needs

Moderate

Sun or Shade

Full sun and Partial shade

Care

Sourwood tree seedlings thrive in well-drained, acidic soils. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mulch near the ground to retain dampness and control weeds. In early spring, fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Prune lightly to shape and encourage a strong structure.

Exposure

Sourwood tree seedlings thrive in partial to full sun, ideally receiving 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They appreciate a location with well-drained, acidic soil and can adapt to various light conditions, though they perform best in brighter spots.

Plant Attributes

Low-maintenance beauty & garden versatility , Unique blossoms & fall color show, Year-round interest & attracts beneficial insects

Sourwood Tree Seedlings grow into one of the most beautiful native trees in America, producing fragrant white summer blooms that attract bees and pollinators by the thousands. Their brilliant scarlet, orange, and crimson fall foliage creates a breathtaking display that turns any landscape into a showpiece. Easy to grow and long-lived, Sourwood trees add year-round beauty, value, and natural charm to your property.

Planting & Growing Information

Ships

Ships Between November 15-29

Planting Zone

5-9

Height at Maturity

Over 25 Feet

Water Needs

Moderate

Sun or Shade

Full sun and Partial shade

Care

Sourwood tree seedlings thrive in well-drained, acidic soils. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Mulch near the ground to retain dampness and control weeds. In early spring, fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Prune lightly to shape and encourage a strong structure.

Exposure

Sourwood tree seedlings thrive in partial to full sun, ideally receiving 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. They appreciate a location with well-drained, acidic soil and can adapt to various light conditions, though they perform best in brighter spots.

Plant Attributes

Low-maintenance beauty & garden versatility , Unique blossoms & fall color show, Year-round interest & attracts beneficial insects

Product Details

Sourwood Tree Seedlings | Oxydendrum Arboreum

Plant Sourwood Tree Seedlings to achieve year-round excitement. Native to the Southeastern United States, this fire-red autumn showstopper begins the growing season with brilliantly showy white flowers.

Plant Details - Sourwood Tree Seedlings (Oxydendrum Arboreum)

Family: Ericaceae

Light Requirement: Full Sun - Partial Shade

Water Needs: Moderate

Height: 20-30 ft.

Spread: 10-25 ft.

Growth Rate: Slow - Moderate

Bloom Time: Early - Mid Summer

Flower Color: Creamy white

Wildlife Value: Attracts pollinators

Young vibrant green sourwood tree seedling with glossy leaves in mulch

This low maintenance specimen tree harbors a strong preference towards acidic soils. It is known to thrive in otherwise infertile soils, relying instead on acidity and consistent moisture. It can tolerate a spectrum of light conditions; however, full sun is ideal for optimal flower output.

The long, slender trunk grows slowly, reaching a mature height of 30 feet. Its finely toothed leaves are moderately long, growing upwards of 8 inches. The foliage is known for turning a bold red color in the fall. Flowers that first appear in early summer droop downwards in cream-colored panicles.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - Sourwood Tree Seedlings (Oxydendrum Arboreum)

With all the beauty this tree has to offer, Sourwood Tree Seedlings are best planted as a specimen plant. A bonus of this tree upon maturity is its value to bees and butterflies, making it a wonderful addition to pollinator gardens. This tree will grow well in bare, acidic ground that other plants struggle in.

As a slower grower, it is important to prevent weeds from taking a stronghold around Sourwood Tree Seedlings it establishes, so it is recommended to mulch around the seedling to help prevent weeds. Very quickly, this tree will take off on its own with very few needs.

Noteworthy Characteristics of Sourwood Tree Seedlings

Sourwood Tree Seedlings earned their name due to chemicals in the sap and leaves that leave the tree tasting sour - this lends itself to being deer-resistant! Standing out amongst other ornamental plants, this tree will flower within just a few years of planting, so there will not be a long wait before you get to admire the gorgeous blooms.

Bundle of bare-root Sourwood Tree Seedlings with tangled roots and green stems tied by blue band

Spectacular Fall Color: 

The Sourwood Tree offers stunning red to purple foliage in autumn, creating a vibrant display in your landscape.


Unique Flower Clusters: 

Enjoy beautiful, fragrant white flowers in summer that attract pollinators and add charm to your garden.

Distinctive Bark: 

  • Adaptable Growth: This tree thrives in a variety of soil types and conditions, making it a versatile choice for different landscapes.


The Sourwood Tree features interesting, peeling bark that adds visual interest throughout the year.

Adaptable Growth: 

This tree thrives in a variety of soil types and conditions, making it a versatile choice for different landscapes.


Frequently Asked Questions

How tall does a sourwood tree get?

A Sourwood tree typically grows 25 to 30 feet tall with a narrow, pyramidal shape. It features glossy green leaves that turn brilliant red in fall. With sunlight and acidic, well-drained soil, it thrives beautifully and adds charm to any landscape.

Where do sourwood trees grow best?

Sourwood trees grow best in full sun to partial shade with acidic, well-drained soil. They thrive in open areas or woodland edges where they get plenty of light. With proper conditions, they grow strong and display stunning fall color year after year.

What is the lifespan of a sourwood tree?

A Sourwood tree typically lives 75 to 100 years. It grows steadily and remains healthy with proper sunlight and soil conditions. Its long lifespan and brilliant seasonal color make it a lasting addition to any landscape.

Why Buy Bare Root Plants From TN Nursery?

Since 1959, TN Nursery has grown and shipped quality bare root plants nationwide. Shipped during dormancy, bare-root plants develop strong root systems and establish quickly. Our experienced team carefully harvests and packages every order, providing growers with trusted plants backed by over 65 years of nursery experience.

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