A Sourwood Tree with red foliage in full bloom, set against a overcast sky.

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Sourwood Tree Seedlings

Adaptable to various soil conditions

Low maintenance once established

Provides year-round visual interest

$89.99

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In Stock: Ships in November 2025

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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

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 the young seedling as 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.

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.

Height at Maturity

Over 25 Feet

Usage

Restoration

Shipped As

Bare-root

Ships

UPS

Planting Zones

5-9

Plant seedlings in early spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Choose a well-drained site with the proper sunlight for the tree species. Dig a hole that's deep and wide enough to support but not hamper the root system without bending or crowding the roots. Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the root collar (where the roots meet the stem) is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil, and pack it around the roots to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the moisture consistent, especially during the first few years, to help the roots establish. Put a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base, but keep it away from the trunk to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Protect the seedlings from pests and physical damage with suitable guards or fencing. Tree seedlings will thrive and grow into strong, healthy trees with proper care.

Caring Tips

How do I care for my Sourwood Tree Seedlings?

Each box contains detailed care instructions and information about your product. But here's the basics.

Care Tips

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.

Light Requirements

Hardy Planting Zones

5 • 6 • 7 • 8 • 9

High success rate with sourwood seedlings

I purchased 10 seedlings in March. I received 13 bare root plants with very few feeder roots but healthy and chunky main roots. I planted them immediately upon arrival. As Spring wore on, eight of them leafed out quickly. Now in early May, I notice new growth emerging at ground level from all but one of the five that **** leaf out immediately. So, even if that one seedling ultimately fails, I already have 12 healthy plants. Moral: Don't give up too soon on your bare root seedlings! I am very happy and have already placed another order with TN Nursery.

Sourwood saplings

Received the saplings in good condition and fairly quickly. They were packed very well. Can't wait to see them grow.

12 Sourwood tree seedlings

Received them on March 20-2024 in good shape and well packed with all roots with good humidity. I asked what was best, to plant them in 3 gallon pots the 1st year or plant them immediately in the permanent spot on my honey bee farm and I had a quick reply on that question. Thanks a lot. My 1st batch of 23 Tulip Poplar trees bought in 2022-2023 are doing excellent. Your products are to be recommended.

Great looking trees!

I ordered 100 Sourwood seedlings and they all looked great!

Excellent

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