Ironwood
Bumelia tenax
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. 756F — Bumelia tenax
Bumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenaxBumelia tenax
IOverview
Overview
Ironwood, scientifically known as Bumelia tenax, is a tree or shrub native to the southeastern United States, specifically found in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It has a hardiness range of 8-11, making it suitable for various climates within its native range. Ironwood is known for its edible fruit, which adds to its value as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes. One distinctive feature of this species is its adaptability to different soil types, allowing it to grow in a variety of environments.
Quick answers
What is Ironwood?
Ironwood, scientifically known as Bumelia tenax, is a tree or shrub native to the southeastern United States, specifically found in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ironwood thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 8-11 and grows to a height of 8 meters, making it suitable for both trees and shrubs. For optimal growth, ensure the soil remains consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Propagate Ironwood through seeds or cuttings. The fruit is edible, adding a unique flavor to your garden's offerings.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Tree, Shrub
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Ironwood for the first time
8steps
Start with Ironwood by planting it in a sunny spot and providing basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
Ironwood saplings or seeds, garden gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Ironwood in spring after the last frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining; amend with compost if necessary. For containers, use a mix of light, medium, and heavy soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings 1-2 meters apart in the garden. Sow seeds directly where you want them to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, especially in dry periods. Prune lightly to shape the tree.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune Ironwood annually to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Fruit can be harvested when ripe.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: Ironwood's fruit can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. The fruit is typically consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. Skip processing details to maintain simplicity.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
4 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
4 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 4 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · 756fdcdc-a7ea-4445-ac7e-a967e2646b79
Decision aid
Choosing between Ironwood and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.