Oxydendrum arboreum, better known as the sourwood or sorrel tree, is the only species in its genus

July 26, 2020

Oxydendrum arboreum, better known as the sourwood or sorrel tree, is the only species in its genus. It's native to eastern North America and is particularly common in the lower section of the Appalachians.

Of course, if you're a fan of honey, you're probably very familiar with the sourwood tree. When bees collect pollen and nectar from the blooms of the sourwood, they produce sourwood honey, which is widely regarded as one of the finest varieties of honey you can find.

Sourwood trees get their name from the acrid flavor of the leaves, although some people chew them to alleviate dry mouth. The leaves are also famous for turning a beautiful crimson color in the fall.

Sourwoods generally don't grow very tall, usually topping out at around 30-60 feet. However, there's a sourwood in Robbinsville, N.C. that measures 118 feet tall with a two-foot trunk! It currently holds the title of largest known sourwood. #BenInNature

ABOUT THIS POST
Social distancing can be difficult, but it presents a great opportunity to become reacquainted with nature. While he is working from home, Administrator of Science Ben Williams is venturing outdoors each day to record a snapshot of the unique sights that can be found in the natural world.

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