Sourwood Tree Seeds

Sourwood (Oxydendrum arboreum), also known as Lily-of-the-Valley Tree or Sorrel Tree, is a beautiful native ornamental tree prized for its fragrant summer flowers, brilliant scarlet-red fall foliage, and graceful pyramidal shape. Native to the eastern United States, Sourwood is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, naturalized landscapes, and pollinator-friendly plantings. Its nectar-rich blossoms are highly attractive to bees and are famous for producing sought-after sourwood honey. Because the seeds are extremely small—similar in size to dust—they should be surface sown and never buried beneath the growing medium.

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Oxydendrum arboreum
• Common Name: Sourwood Tree, Lily-of-the-Valley Tree, Sorrel Tree
• Family: Ericaceae
• Germination Rate: 20–40%
• Plant Type: Deciduous ornamental tree
• Native Range: Eastern United States
• Mature Height: 25–50 feet
• Mature Spread: 20–30 feet
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5–9

Germination Instructions

• Seeds are extremely tiny, similar to dust, and should be handled carefully.
• Fill seed trays or pots with a fine, sterile seed-starting mix.
• Surface sow the seeds without covering them, as light helps promote germination.
• Lightly mist the growing medium to settle the seeds.
• Cover the container with a humidity dome to maintain consistent moisture.
• Place in a bright location with indirect light at temperatures of 65–75°F (18–24°C).
• Keep the growing medium evenly moist but never waterlogged.
• Germination is often slow and may take several weeks.

Growing Information

• Prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soils rich in organic matter.
• Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
• Performs best in woodland settings or landscapes with consistent soil moisture.
• Avoid alkaline or poorly drained soils.
• Produces fragrant white flower clusters during mid to late summer.
• Outstanding scarlet, orange, and crimson fall foliage provides exceptional seasonal color.
• Excellent specimen tree for native gardens, pollinator gardens, and woodland landscapes.
• Attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial pollinators.

Seed Quantities Available

• 1 oz. - 312,500 Seeds