Nyssa sylvatica 'Forest Fire', commonly known as Black Gum or Tupelo, is an attractive deciduous tree celebrated for its brilliant fall foliage. This cultivar stands out for its fiery autumn shades, ranging from deep red to vivid orange, offering ornamental beauty to any landscape. In spring, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers emerge, followed by small bluish-black fruits that are valuable to wildlife. Its glossy green summer foliage adds a polished touch to its upright, pyramidal form. With high tolerance to varying conditions and impressive adaptability, this tree is a great choice for both urban and rural planting.
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Water need: Medium
- Growth rate: Slow to moderate
- Mature size (HxW): 30–50' x 20–30'
- Habit: Upright, pyramidal
- Bloom/interest: Fall foliage (red/orange), small fruit; spring flowers
- Hardiness zone: 4–9
- Soil tolerance: Prefers moist, acidic soil, but adaptable
- Drought/heat tolerance: Moderate adaptability once established
