A rare type of honeymade from trees found in Georgia'sriver basins is gaining attention as one of the South'smost unique delicacies.
Southern Living recently highlighted Tupelo honey, a rare honey variety made when bees collect nectar from the blossoms of the Tupelo tree, which grows in parts of the South, including Georgia's river basins.
The tree's spring bloom only lasts for a short time each year, giving beekeepers a limited window to produce the highly sought-after honey.
Here's everything to know.
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A rare honey tied to Georgia rivers
Tupelo trees can be found near some of Georgia's waterways, including the Altamaha and Ogeechee River basins. The remote, swampy areas where the trees grow can make harvesting the honey a challenge.
The honey
is known for its light color, smooth texture and unique flavor. Because of its limited production and short harvesting season, Tupelo honey is considered one of the most prized varieties in the world.
Savannah Bee Company shares Tupelo honey story
Georgia's connection to Tupelo honey is closely tied to Savannah Bee Companyand founder Ted Dennard.
Dennard, a St. Simons Island native, first discovered Tupelo honey while exploring the Altamaha River area and later began producing honey from hives placed near Tupelo trees.
That passion eventually led him to create Savannah Bee Company in 2002, which now sells honey products while also focusing on honeybee education and conservation.
Why Tupelo honey is special
Unlike many honey varieties, Tupelo honey is known for its smooth texture and tendency to remain liquid instead of crystallizing quickly.
The rare honey highlights the connection between Georgia's natural landscapes and the pollinators that help support them, turning a short spring bloom into a sweet Southern tradition.
For more information, visit southernliving.com/tupelo-honey-ted-dennard-12026992.
Vanessa Johns is the Trending Topics Reporter for the Deep South Connect Team Georgia, covering food and entertainment. Email her at Vcountryman@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Southern Living spotlights Georgia's rare honey made from a tree
