Tree
Sourwood
Oxydendrum arboreum
Varieties We Carry
StandardOxydendrum arboreum
Sizes & Pricing
1 galFrom$9.95
3 galFrom$19.95
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightPart Sun, Part Shade
WaterModerate
Mature size20-30 feet × 15-20 feet
About Sourwood
Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum) is a slow-growing deciduous native tree of the eastern US, bearing drooping racemes of fragrant white flowers in summer that attract bees and yield prized sourwood honey. It is best suited to zones 5–9a; in NE Florida (zone 9b) it is marginal — site in part shade with acidic, well-drained soil and expect reduced vigor and fall color compared to cooler climates. Starting at $9.95.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Summer
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Slow
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Soil
- Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
New foliage emerges. Good planting window.
Bloom season.
Foliage may begin to change or drop. Ideal planting window.
Dormant — drops foliage. Can be planted in mild winter periods.
Care essentials
Light
In NE Florida, site in part sun to light shade; protection from intense afternoon sun reduces heat stress, as sourwood is at the edge of its heat tolerance in zone 9b (UF/IFAS recommends only through 9a). Avoid full southern exposure.
Water
Requires consistent moisture, especially during NE Florida's dry season (fall–spring). Water deeply and regularly for the first 2–3 years; established trees need supplemental irrigation during drought. Avoid waterlogged soils.
Soil & Fertilizer
Requires well-drained, acidic soil (pH 4.5–6.0) — amend NE Florida's sandy soils with organic matter to improve moisture retention. Avoid alkaline soils and high-pH fertilizers; use acid-forming fertilizer (e.g., azalea/camellia formula) in spring. Note: zone 9b is at the southern limit of this tree's range; fall color will be muted compared to trees grown in cooler climates.
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Common questions
Is Sourwood a good plant for St. Augustine?
Sourwood is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 20-30 feet × 15-20 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed February 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.