Nyssa sylvatica is a native deciduous tree known for its brilliant fall color, glossy green leaves, and ecological value. Often called black gum or tupelo, it features an upright pyramidal shape in youth and a more horizontal layered structure with age. Its small greenish white flowers are inconspicuous to the eye but highly attractive to pollinators, and its blue black fruit supports wildlife in late summer through fall. This tree is ideal for naturalized plantings, rain gardens, or as a specimen tree in full sun to partial shade. Height & Spread: 30 - 50 ft x 20 - 30 ft Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade Soil Preference: Moist, acidic, well drained soils Watering Needs: Average; tolerates seasonal flooding once established Deer Resistance: Moderately deer resistant Native Status Native to eastern North America, from southern Ontario and Maine south to Florida and west to Texas. WILDLIFE & INSECTS Bees Small flowers provide nectar and pollen to native bees and honeybees especially important during late spring. Birds Fruits are relished by thrushes, woodpeckers, bluebirds, and other songbirds during fall migration. Mammals Fruit and foliage feed small mammals like raccoons, opossums, and foxes while its hollow trunks offer shelter. Spacing & Landscape Use Spacing Recommendations: Allow 20 - 30 ft spacing for mature canopy spread and air circulation. Landscape Placement: Use as a specimen tree, in rain gardens, or wildlife corridors where its fall foliage and ecological value shine. Companion Plants Amelanchier canadensis (Serviceberry) - Multi season small tree with spring flowers and edible fruit that harmonizes with Nyssa’s natural form. Carex pensylvanica (Pennsylvania Sedge) - Fine textured native sedge that thrives in the shaded understory and helps stabilize soil. Aronia arbutifolia 'Brilliantissima' - Upright red chokeberry adds red berries and blazing fall foliage in moist conditions compatible with Nyssa. Viburnum nudum 'Winterthur' - Glossy leaves and late season berries mirror the fall interest of Nyssa while tolerating similar moisture levels. Itea virginica 'Little Henry' - Dwarf sweetspire with fragrant white racemes and brilliant red fall color under Nyssa’s canopy.
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