Quick answer: Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) is native to 17 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 04 Nov 2026.
Photo: Unknown photographer, Wikimedia Commons (PUBLIC DOMAIN)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Low water |
| Soil | Gritty, woodsy, acidic, well-drained soils |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Aug |
| Height | 30-70 ft, up to 100 ft |
| Wildlife value | Special value to honey bees, conspicuous flowers attractive to pollinators |
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (04 Nov 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 04 Nov 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Sourwood
Where is Sourwood native?
Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) is native to 17 states across the Northeast, Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Sourwood bloom?
Sourwood blooms Apr-Aug. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Sourwood need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Low water. Soil: Gritty, woodsy, acidic, well-drained soils. Mature height: 30-70 ft, up to 100 ft.
Is Sourwood good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Special value to honey bees, conspicuous flowers attractive to pollinators.
Is Sourwood deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Sourwood is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Sourwood seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seed that names the true species, last checked 04 Nov 2026. Look for the scientific name Oxydendrum arboreum on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Sourwood.
- Blackjack oak Quercus marilandica
- Shortleaf pine Pinus echinata
- Cockspur hawthorn Crataegus crus-galli
- American holly Ilex opaca
- Common hoptree Ptelea trifoliata
- Loblolly pine Pinus taeda
Also listed under
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