Cyrilla racemiflora aka Black Titi

Cyrilla racemiflora is a shrub or small tree called leatherwood or black titi. It belongs to the Cyrillaceae family. Its native range runs from the southeastern United States to northern Brazil. It also grows in Central America and the Caribbean. Wild plants grow beside streams, in swamps, and in wet pine woods. Some also grow on sandy ridges above streams.

Garden plants often reach about 8–10 feet [2.4–3 metres] tall. Larger plants can reach 30 feet [9.1 metres]. Tropical accounts report heights up to 49 feet [15 metres]. The crown spreads 10–20 feet [3–6.1 metres] wide. Growth can form dense thickets with many stems. Young plants look like shrubs but can form small trees. Twisted stems add interest to the shape. Young bark is smooth and cinnamon brown. Older bark turns gray and flakes off.

The thick, smooth leaves grow in an alternate pattern. Their edges lack teeth, and their veins form a net. Leaves reach about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] long. They may stay green year-round or fall in cooler climates. Fall shades include yellow, orange, and burgundy. White, scented flowers bloom from May through July. They hang in racemes on the previous year's growth. These clusters reach 0.25–0.5 feet [0.08–0.15 metres] long. Small, dry capsules turn yellow-brown in fall and remain into winter. Each capsule usually matures just one seed.

Grow leatherwood in sun or partial shade, in acid soil. It favors moist to wet loam with plenty of organic matter. Good drainage suits it, though it tolerates brief flooding. It also withstands heat, soil compaction, and some drought. Give it water during dry spells on drier sites. Sources list USDA zones 5–11, though one growing account gives 5–10. It suits pond edges, rain gardens, and damp woodland margins. Its flowers, fall leaves, and bark give it landscape value.

Thickets shelter wildlife during harsh weather. Birds and mammals eat the fruit, while deer browse the leaves. Bees and butterflies visit the flowers for nectar. Yet its pollen can harm honeybee brood, so avoid planting near managed hives. Sources report no major pest or disease problems. No human food uses are known. Older accounts describe bark use to help stop bleeding. They also describe hard, heavy wood that lacks strength. Reports of no known hazards do not establish safety for people or pets.