Nyssa sylvatica

sour gum or black tupeloItem family NYS-SY-XXXShade Trees

Nyssa sylvatica

Spec sheet

Hardiness
Hardy to zone 4

Prices and ordering are for approved wholesale customers

Sign in to see your price and what is ready now in each size.

Already buying from us by phone? Call 503-982-6300 and we will send you an invitation.

Sizes we grow

Container grown (CG)

  • #15
  • #25

B&B in pot (BBP), by caliper or height

  • 1 in caliper
  • 1.25 in caliper
  • 1.5 in caliper
  • 1.75 in caliper
  • 2 in caliper
  • 4 to 5 ft tall
  • 5 to 6 ft tall

About this plant

Nyssa sylvatica, commonly known as Black Tupelo or Black Gum, is a versatile deciduous tree admired for its striking autumn foliage and resilience. Its glossy dark green leaves turn vivid shades of red, orange, or yellow in fall, making it a seasonal centerpiece in landscapes. The small, inconspicuous flowers in spring attract pollinators, while its bluish-black fruit provides nourishment for wildlife in late summer. With its deeply furrowed bark and pyramidal to rounded form, Nyssa sylvatica is a hardy choice for shaded sites or water-adjacent areas. It is also tolerant of wet soils and less-than-ideal growing conditions.

- 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 to rounded
- Bloom/interest: Fall foliage, wildlife-friendly fruits
- Hardiness zone: 4–9
- Soil tolerance: Acidic, moist, well-drained
- Drought/heat tolerance: Moderate

Similar plants