Sourwood is among the most beautiful of all the native trees and has been compared to the beauty of the Flowering Dogwood (Dirr, M.). 
 
     Sourwood also is called Lily-of-the-Valley Tree because of the beautiful urn-shaped flowers that droop from the branches like a string of bells.  These flowers bloom at the tips of the branches in mid-summer, when most trees have finished the show.
 
     By fall the flowers give way to ruddy seed capsules, which persist through early winter.
 
     Known for its deep, red fall foliage, the leaves actually begin turning color while the tree is still blooming in mid-summer.  Its deep red and sometimes orange-red fall color is among the most distinguishing features of Sourwood.
 
     Want to know why it's called Sourwood?  Try chewing on a leaf!
 
     Fun Fact: Honey made from Sourwood nectar is prized and sought after.
 
     3rd Photo: Mrs. Gemstone