Sideroxylon lanuginosum aka Chittamwood

Sideroxylon lanuginosum is a deciduous tree in the Sapotaceae family. Its common names include gum bumelia, chittamwood, and woolly buckthorn. The older name Bumelia lanuginosa refers to this species. It grows across the central and southern United States into Mexico. Wild plants occur beside woods, streams, ponds, and old fences. They also grow in rocky glades and unused pastures.

Garden trees reach about 20–45 feet (6.1–13.7 metres) tall. Their spread can reach 30 feet (9.1 metres). Florida accounts give larger sizes, reaching 50 feet (15.2 metres). They also report spreads to 35 feet (10.7 metres). Some plants stay shrubby, while others form an open tree. Crowns range from narrow or oval to broad and uneven. Short branches may carry sharp thorns and release milky sap. Older bark turns brown or gray, with deep grooves and flat ridges.

The simple green leaves grow in turns along the stems. Some leaves also form clusters. They reach about two to three inches long. Each leaf has smooth edges that curl down slightly. Soft hairs cover the leaf underside. Leaves can stay late into fall before they drop. Fall color may be dull yellow or show little change. Small white flowers grow where leaves join the stems. They bloom in June and July, and bees visit them. Shiny black fruit ripens in fall, sometimes with a blue tint. Each fruit holds one seed and measures about half an inch. Birds and other wildlife eat the fruit.

Grow this tree in sun or part shade. It needs soil that drains well. It accepts sand, loam, clay, and shallow rocky ground. It also tolerates both acid and alkaline soils. Once grown, it withstands drought and dry soil well. Sources place it in USDA zones 6–10 or 5–9. Winter hardiness remains less certain near its northern range edge. The Missouri Botanical Garden suggests a sheltered site around St. Louis.

Growth is moderate, and routine care needs are low. Young plants need pruning to build a sound tree form. Sources report no major pest or disease problems. The thorns can limit where gardeners place it. Native gardens, wild areas, and boundary plantings suit this tree. Nurseries may stock it rarely. People can eat the fruit, but large amounts cause stomach upset. Kiowa and Comanche people also used outer-bark material as chewing gum.