Nyssa sylvatica

black gum, tupelo, tupelo

Tupelo is an elegant, fairly slow-growing tree with dense, horizontal branching and glossy leaves that give splendid fall color. This tree is quite drought tolerant once established, making it an ideal choice as a shade tree for yards, gardens, and meadows.

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Height: 30-60 ft
Spread: 20-35 ft
Hardiness Zone: 4-9


Bloom Color: Insignificant

Characteristics & Attributes

Cultivation Status
• Species
Exposure
• Sun
• Part Shade
Soil Moisture
• Wet
• Average
Ecoregion
• (59) Northeastern Coastal Zone
• (84) Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens
• (82) Acadian Plains and Hills
• (58) Northeastern Highlands
• (83) Eastern Great Lakes Lowlands
Ornamental Interest
• Fall Foliage
• Summer Fruit
• Spring Bloom
Attracts Wildlife
• Host Plant
• Other Pollinators/Wildlife
• Attracts Songbirds
Tolerance
• Urban Environment
• Compaction Tolerant
• Salt Tolerant
Additional Attributes
• Edible
• Low Maintenance
Landscape Use
• Naturalize
• Specimen
Attractive Fall Foliage and/or Ornamental Fruit
• Red to Purple Fall Foliage
• Blue Fruit


North American Distribution


black gum, tupelo - Nyssa sylvatica from Native Plant Trust
black gum, tupelo - Nyssa sylvatica from Native Plant Trust
black gum, tupelo - Nyssa sylvatica from Native Plant Trust