Oxydendrum arboreum

RHS Plant Profile
sorrel tree
sorrel tree RHS 2002

Other common names

sourwood, titi

Synonyms

Andromeda arborea

Shrubs Trees

A large shrub with alternate, finely toothed, glossy leaves which turn brilliant red in autumn, and small white flowers from late summer

Position

Full shade, Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid

Position

Full shade Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Ericaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus
Oxydendrum are deciduous shrubs or trees with oblong or lance-shaped leaves which colour well in autumn, and panicles of small, cylindrical white flowers in late summer and early autumn
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
E USA

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained acidic soil in a sheltered position

Propagation

Propagate by seed and semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free