Shittamwood
Bumelia lycioides
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Pl. C7B5 — Bumelia lycioides
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IOverview
Overview
Shittamwood (Bumelia lycioides) is a deciduous tree or shrub found in the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Virginia and westward into Texas. Known for its light requirements of full sun and ability to thrive in various soil types—ranging from sandy to clay—it can grow up to 8 meters tall. This plant is notable for being both edible and native to a significant portion of its habitat, with its fruit serving as an important food source. Its adaptability to different soil pH levels (4-7) makes it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes in hardiness zones 6-9.
Quick answers
What is Shittamwood?
Shittamwood (Bumelia lycioides) is a deciduous tree or shrub found in the southeastern United States, ranging from Alabama to Virginia and westward into Texas. Known for its light requirements of full sun and ability to thrive in various soil types—ranging from sandy to clay—it can grow up to 8 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Shittamwood thrives in full sun and requires moist but well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and grows to a height of 8 meters, making it suitable for both tree and shrub cultivation. Propagate via seeds or cuttings. The fruit is edible, adding a versatile element to your garden.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
8.0 m tall
Soil pH
4–7
For first-time growers
How to grow Shittamwood for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Shittamwood in a sunny spot and follow these beginner-friendly steps.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Shittamwood sapling, well-draining soil, and a garden trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when the weather is cooler and more stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with a pH between 4 and 7. Amend as needed for drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings from containers into your garden bed, ensuring they are at the same depth as in their container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for any signs of stress or pests.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry spells. Prune lightly in late winter to maintain shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the tree annually in late winter to remove dead or crossing branches and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting regular pruning, using incorrect soil pH, and not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the shittamwood is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. SKIP
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
16 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
16 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 16 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c7b51712-4012-49f3-b7df-e97a711009b3
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