Editing Oxydendrum (section)

==Growth==
{{unreferencedsect|date=May 2025}}
Sourwood is a small [[tree]] or large [[shrub]], growing to {{convert|10|-|20|m|ft|abbr=on}} tall with a trunk up to {{convert|50|cm|in|abbr=on}} diameter. Occasionally on extremely productive sites, this species can reach heights in excess of 30 meters and 60&nbsp;cm diameter. The [[leaves]] are alternately arranged, [[deciduous]], {{convert|8|–|20|cm|in|abbr=on}} long and {{convert|4|–|9|cm|in|abbr=on}} broad, with a finely [[serrated]] margin; they are dark green in summer, but turn vivid red in fall. The [[flower]]s are white, bell-shaped, 6–9&nbsp;mm ( 1/4 to 1/3&nbsp;inch) long, produced on {{convert|15|–|25|cm|in|abbr=on}} long [[panicle]]s. The [[fruit]] is a small woody [[capsule (fruit)|capsule]]. The [[root]]s are shallow, and the tree grows best when there is little root competition; it also requires [[acidic soil]]s for successful growth. The leaves can be chewed (but should not be swallowed) to help alleviate a dry-feeling mouth.