Tupelo Tree
Thrives in Zones 4-9
Attracts birds and wildlife
Low maintenance requirements
Deep roots stabilize soil
Ships in
November 2025Tupelo Tree for Sale | Nyssa sylvatica | Vibrant Fall Color
The Tupelo Tree is an ornamental and deciduous tree that brings brilliant red and orange fall color to your yard, with a pyramidical habit.
Plant Details | Nyssa sylvatica Growth, Size & Care Info
Family: Bignoniaceae
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Water Needs: Moist
Height: 30 – 50 ft.
Spread: 20 – 30 ft.
Growth Rate: Slow
Bloom Time: Spring
Flower Color: White
Wildlife Value: Attracts bees, birds
Landscape Uses | Tupelo Tree Benefits & Maintenance Guide
Tupelo Tree is a deciduous tree that will make a great statement in your yard. This tree is dioecious, with both male and female flowers on separate trees, so make sure to get at least two trees to have the best fruit set. This tree is a slow grower, but it will be sure to last for a long time in your yard.
Plant this tree to create a shade garden, rain garden, or use as a focal point in your yard or landscape.
This tree will bloom from late spring through early summer. Its flowers are small and white, and the nectar will attract bees. The tree will produce small, dark blue fruits that are a great source of food for many birds and mammals.
Plant this tree in an area that gets full sun to partial shade. Avoid planting it in a location that has full shade as this will limit its growth.
It prefers well draining, acidic soil. These trees favor and tolerate wet soil very well and are often found in locations that are moist to wet in nature. If you have a wet location or rain garden in your yard, this tree is a great option to stabilize that area.
Watch this tree for signs of insect damage and treat accordingly.
This tree is deer resistant except when it is young.
Noteworthy Characteristics | Tupelo Wildlife & Pollinator Value
Tupelo Tree is a great habitat for primary, and also secondary, cavity nesting birds, including owls, woodpeckers, and nuthatches.
As it is hard to find in stores, the honey that is made from the flowers of this tree is highly sought after and prized amongst those in the beekeeping community.
This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery
Height at Maturity
Over 25 Feet
Care
Tupelo tree thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, acidic soil. Water regularly during establishment, then occasionally during dry periods. It’s low-maintenance and resistant to most pests. Prune in late winter if needed.
Plant Reproduction
Tupelo tree spreads through seed dispersal and root suckers.
How to Grow and Care for Bare Root Trees
Bare root trees are shipped dormant without soil, making them lightweight, cost-effective, and easy to plant during the cool months of early spring or fall. To begin, soak the roots in a bucket of water for 4–6 hours before planting to rehydrate them. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil and ample space for the tree’s mature size.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the spread of the roots and deep enough to keep the root flare (where the roots begin to spread from the trunk) at or slightly above ground level. Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole, spread the roots evenly over it, backfill with native soil, and gently tamp down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.
Keep the soil consistently moist (not soggy) during the first growing season, and apply mulch around the base—avoiding direct contact with the trunk—to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Stake the tree if necessary, and prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. With proper care, your bare root tree will establish quickly and grow strong for years to come.
Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.
We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE
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Why You Will Love Our Black Gum-Tupelo Tree
Attractive Appearance:
The tree is known for its lovely appearance, including distinctive alligator-like bark and beautiful fall colors. Its unique look makes it a standout feature in any garden.
Longevity:
Black Gum Trees can live for over 70 years with proper care, offering long-term beauty and value. This longevity allows you to enjoy its presence and create lasting family memories.
Versatile Growing Conditions:
It thrives in both wet and dry areas, making it adaptable to different garden environments. This versatility allows it to fit well into various landscaping conditions.
Rare Availability:
While not always easy to find in nurseries, the Black Gum Tree's unique beauty makes it a special and sought-after addition. If you find one, it's worth the effort to include it in your garden.
