Sourwood grows throughout the Piedmont uplands. It ripens in September and October, and the tiny seeds are dispersed gradually throughout the winter by the dehiscing capsule. Seedling Development Seedbed requirements are not known for natural regeneration. This indicates that seed germination and establishment may occur on litter and under partially shaded conditions. Acid sandy peat is recommended as a seedbed for sourwood.
Germination is epigeal.
Sourwood is difficult to propagate from cuttings. No reports were found of propagation by grafting. Sourwood usually remains in the forest understory from seedling to maturity. Sourwood develops a slender trunk and small crown in dense stands. In more open situations it forms a short, often leaning trunk dividing into several stout, ascending limbs.