sorrel tree
A sorrel tree stands in a sunlit meadow with white flowers blooming among its leaves.
Noun: 1. A type of tree: A deciduous tree (Oxydendrum arboreum) native to eastern North America, known for its deeply furrowed bark, clusters of small, fragrant white flowers, and leaves that have a sour taste. 2. A type of tree: An Australian tree (genus Rhododendron, section Vireya) with acidic foliage.
- Noun:
- The sorrel tree is also commonly called the sourwood.
- In autumn, the leaves of the sorrel tree turn a brilliant crimson.
- The honey produced from sorrel tree blossoms is highly prized.
- The term sorrel tree is primarily used in botanical and horticultural contexts to refer to these specific species. In landscaping, it is valued for its multi-season interest: flowers in summer, vibrant foliage in fall, and textured bark in winter.
- Sourwood: The most common alternative name for the North American .
- Lily-of-the-valley tree: Another name for the North American species, referring to the shape and fragrance of its flower clusters.
- Oxydendrum arboreum: The scientific (Latin) name for the North American sorrel tree.
- Titi: A common name sometimes used for trees in the related genus , which can cause confusion.
- Sourwood (for )
- Lily-of-the-valley tree (for )
The term sorrel tree refers to two distinct botanical entities: 1. The primary and most common reference in North America is to Oxydendrum arboreum. 2. The secondary reference is to certain Australian trees with sour-tasting leaves, which are botanically different from the North American tree. Context (geographic or botanical) is needed to distinguish which tree is meant.
A sorrel tree stands in a sunlit meadow with white flowers blooming among its leaves.
- Australian tree with acid foliage
- deciduous shrubby tree of eastern North America having deeply fissured bark and sprays of small fragrant white flowers and sour-tasting leaves