Ironwood

Common Name(s):
Chittamwood, Ironwood
Scientific Name:
Sideroxylon lanuginosum
Synoyms:
Bumelia lanuginosa
Family:
Sapotaceae
Longevity:
Perennial
Season:
Warm
Origin:
Native
Height:
15 m
Flowers:
May - July
Fruits:
Fall
Description: A shrub or small tree with spine-pointed branchlets occurring on rocky outcrops, hillsides, and woods mainly in the southern U.S. Leaves are alternate or clustered on spur branchlets. Purplish black fruit is eaten by many species of wildlife. Is reported to be a good beetree for honey production. Fruits are edible, but may cause illness if eaten in quantity.