Description
Nyssa sylvatica, also known as black tupelo or black gum tree, grows naturally in the moist or forested regions of the eastern United States. In the wild, it forms beautiful solitary specimens or grows along forest edges. Introduced to Europe as an ornamental tree, it is admired for its hardiness, wind tolerance, and above all, its stunning autumn foliage. It belongs to the Nyssaceae family, sometimes classified under Cornaceae.
The black gum tree displays a pyramidal shape when young, becoming more rounded with age. Its simple, glossy, oval leaves turn vivid shades of red, orange, purple, or burgundy in autumn. The dark grey bark becomes rough with time. Appreciated for its spectacular fall colors, it is often planted as a specimen tree to highlight its beauty.
Mature height: 10 to 15 m
Spread: 5 to 8 m
Foliage: Deciduous, glossy dark green turning scarlet red in autumn
Habit: Upright, pyramidal to rounded
Growth rate: Moderate (20–30 cm/year)
Type: Deciduous ornamental tree
Hardiness: Very good (down to -25 °C / -13 °F)
Lifespan: Over 80 years
Main interest: Spectacular autumn color
Flowering: Spring (small, inconspicuous, greenish, nectar-rich flowers)
Fruits: Small black drupes (not edible), attract birds
Exposure: Full sun or part shade (best coloring in full sun)
Soil: Acid to neutral, moist to fresh, well-drained
Tolerates heavy soils if not waterlogged
Dislikes chalky or very alkaline soils
Best planted in autumn or spring
Requires a deep, fresh soil, with mulch at the base during the first years to preserve moisture
Add compost and ericaceous soil if needed
Space at least 4 to 6 m from other trees
Regular watering during the first two years
Likes fresh soils: water in dry periods
Cannot withstand long droughts without root protection
No mandatory pruning
Formative pruning possible in late winter for young trees
Remove low or unbalanced branches if necessary
By seed (slow and unreliable) or cuttings (challenging)
Usually sold as grafted or nursery-grown plants
Perfect for:
Solitary planting in lawns or large beds
Autumn gardens or plant collections
Near ponds or moist zones
Large country gardens or parks
Very hardy, rarely affected by disease
Occasional aphids or scale insects: minor and rare
Needs monitoring only in dry or calcareous soils
Choose a bright location with fresh to moist soil
Apply a mulch each summer
Combine with shade perennials or decorative foliage plants (hostas, ferns, astilbes)
Avoid dry or chalky soils without soil improvement
Nyssa sylvatica is a tree of outstanding ornamental value, discreet in spring but breathtaking in autumn. Its elegant form, low maintenance, and vibrant foliage make it a jewel for foliage-focused gardens — a refined and enduring species for lovers of botanical diversity and fiery landscapes.
Expédition & livraison
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Each order is processed individually.
Plants are packed, staked and labeled.
Packaging is carefully implemented to avoid any problems.
Packages are ready to be shipped.Shipping of our plants throughout Europe (except overseas and islands).
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