SOURWOOD

also called Sorrel (species Oxydendrum arboreum), ornamental tree, of the heath family (Ericaceae), native to southeastern North America. It grows to about 23 m (75 feet) in height. The bitter-tasting leaves are alternate, stalked, rather oblong, and 1220 cm (58 inches) long. In the autumn the leaves turn a brilliant red. The fragrant white flowers, about 1 cm long, grow in clusters 2025 cm in length.