Oxydendrum arboreum

Oxydendrum arboreum is an understory tree native to dry-moist forests across the region. It has a characteristic twisty lean to the trunk from growing towards a gap in the canopy; it can sometimes be quite dramatic. The leaves turn a brilliant red in the fall. It grows in full sun to deep shade, but flowers best with plenty of sunlight. The drooping clusters of small white flowers bloom in summer and are very attractive to butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. Oxydendrum arboreum works well for restoration plantings.