Sourwood

Midsummer brings graceful, drooping sprays of fragrant white flowers to sourwood, a favorite of honey bees and the source of prized sourwood honey. In autumn the glossy leaves turn brilliant scarlet to deep maroon, ranking it among the finest trees for fall color. Its slender, pyramidal form suits smaller yards, woodland edges, and naturalistic plantings. Plant it in acidic, well-drained soil for best results. Like its heath family relatives, sourwood has tiny seed that should be scattered on the surface, never covered, so light can reach it.