Sourwood is a deciduous, small to medium tree in the blueberry family ( Ericaceae ). It is native to the eastern and southern United States,

This plant prefers acidic, peaty, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of shade and dry soils and moderately tolerant of salt. It is intolerant of pollution and urban areas. A very ornamental plant, it will flower in 4 to 5 years after planting from seed. This plant does not like to be transplanted so only do so with young plants.

Sourwood makes an excellent understory tree or planted in small groups in a woodland garden. It also serves well as a shade or flowering specimen in a native, pollinator, butterfly, or children’s garden.

Host plant for the Royal Walnut Moth, Lettered Sphinx and the Red-winged Sphinx.