Symplocos tinctoria/Horsesugar

Close-up image of late winter flowers, but of little ornamental value
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Scientific Name:	Symplocos tinctoria
Common Name:	Horsesugar
Plant Type:	Evergreen
Leaf Type:	Broadleaf
Hardiness Zone:	7, 8, 9 Determine Your Zone
Height:	15-20 feet
Spread:	15 - 20 feet
Bloom time:	Spring
Flower color:	White, Yellow
Fruit present:	Summer
Fruit color:	Green, Brown
Light Exposure:	Part Sun, Filtered Shade, Shade, Morning sun
Drainage:	Well drained, Moist,
Rate of Growth:	Moderate
Water Requirement:	Medium
Maintenance Level:	Low
Susceptible to insects and diseases:	No

Comments:	This is a native, semi-evergreen tree that is somewhat common as an understory tree in southern forests and woodlands. Because most grow in the shade of other trees, the canopy of the horsesugar is open and foliage is seldom dense. The foliage tends to have a wilted condition and there is usually a few old purple leaves persisting on a tree growing in the woods. The foliage has an artificial sweetning taste. Seeds eaten by birds.