Black Gum Tree

Black Gum Tree (Nyssa sylvatica)

Black Gum Tree: Nyssa sylvatica, or the black gum tree, is a tall and lovely tree that will flourish in the moderately warm USDA plant hardiness zones.

tree is a native species of the United States. In nature, you might see it in high woodlands, near swamplands or marshes, or occasionally in a floodplain. They are drought-tolerant after they mature but need an inch of weekly watering during the first growing season.

 

People choose the black gum tree for its easygoing nature and pretty colors, especially its fiery red fall color. The black gum tree demands little from the gardener except a sunny to partial sun spot in the yard.

Nyssa sylvatica Has Several Common Names

Some gardeners prefer other common names for Nyssa sylvatica:

• Black gum Tree
• Black Gum Tree
• Black Tupelo Tree
• Common Tupelo Tree
• Cotton Gum Tree
• Nyssa Tree
• Pepperidge Tree
• Sour Gum Tree
• Tupelo Gum Tree

The Black Gum Tree Is Grand and Handsome

The black gum tree is tall, medium-sized, and handsome. Each tree will grow to a mature height between forty to seventy feet. The species will develop a pyramidical crown with a rounded rather than a sharp shape at the top. The trunk will be three to four feet in diameter, proportionate to the height. The bark is medium to dark gray, with attractive furrows and ridges.

The black gum tree bears glorious deep green leaves with a pale green underside. Each leaf may measure about six inches long and three inches wide and have an elliptical shape and a sharp point at the tip. In the fall, those leaves will display gorgeous fiery red colors.

Each black gum tree can produce clusters of fruits that emerge around the end of August and continues to bear the fruit throughout the first weeks of autumn. Local wildlife, including squirrels, chipmunks, deer, and birds, will enjoy harvesting this feast into the early winter.

Black Gum Tree landscape benefits in landscaping. Black gum trees (Nyssa sylvatica), also known as black tupelo trees, can provide several benefits in landscaping. Here are some advantages of incorporating black gum trees into your landscape: Beautiful Fall Foliage: Black gum trees are prized for stunning fall foliage.

The leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, and purple, creating a striking display of colors in your landscape. Shade and Privacy: With their dense canopy and broad spreading branches, black gum trees offer excellent shade, making them ideal for creating cool, shady areas in your yard.

The tree's foliage can also provide privacy by blocking the view from neighboring properties. Wildlife Habitat: Black gum trees attract a variety of wildlife. The tree's fruit resembles small berries and is a valuable food source for birds, including bluebirds, woodpeckers, and thrushes. The flowers also attract bees and butterflies, supporting pollinators in your garden.

Adaptability: Black gum trees are adaptable to various soil types, including wet or swampy conditions. They can tolerate acidic and alkaline soils and are moderately drought-tolerant once established. This adaptability makes them suitable for various landscaping settings. Low Maintenance: Once established, black gum trees are relatively low maintenance. They are generally disease-resistant and have few pest issues.

Erosion Control: The deep root system of black gum trees helps stabilize the soil, making them useful for erosion control on slopes or areas prone to erosion. The extensive roots also aid in water absorption, reducing the risk of water runoff and flooding.

Longevity: Black gum trees have a long lifespan, with some specimens living for centuries. Planting a black gum tree can be an investment in a long-lasting feature for your landscape. It's worth noting that black gum trees can grow quite large, reaching heights of 30 to 50 feet or more. Therefore, it's essential to consider the available space and potential impact on surrounding structures when planting them in your landscape.

Order Your Black Gum Tree From TN Nursery

The black gum tree is a beautiful, mid-sized tree that will provide lovely green foliage in the summer and blazing red color in the autumn--please place your order with TN Nursery today.