sorrel tree

noun

1. a North American tree, Oxydendrum arboreum, of the heath family, having leaves with an acid flavor and drooping clusters of white flowers.

sorrel tree

noun

1. a deciduous ericaceous tree, Oxydendrum arboreum, of E North America, having deeply fissured bark, sour-tasting leaves, and small white flowers Also calledsourwood

Word History and Origins

Origin of sorrel tree¹

An Americanism dating back to 1680–90

Word History and Origins

Origin of sorrel tree¹

C17: so called because the bitter flavour of the leaves is reminiscent of sorrel

Example Sentences

They were the flowers of the sorrel-tree—the beautiful lyonia—the very sight of which sent a thrill of gladness through my heart.

From Project Gutenberg

It is called sorrel-tree, sour gum, and sour gum bush, on account of the acidity of the leaves when chewed.

From Project Gutenberg