Nyssa sylvatica

Black Gum or Sour Gum

Nyssa sylvatica - Black Gum

Tips for Homeowners:

Prune dead wood.

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This is an excellent shade tree with beautiful fall foliage.

  • Outstanding ornamental shade tree
  • One of the best trees for fall color
  • Interesting, textured bark
  • Food and cover for watchable wildlife

A real beauty for the landscape, woodland gardens or for naturalizing in low, moist areas.

Height: 30-50 ft
Spread: 20-30 ft
Zone: 4 - 7
Color: White

Interesting Notes about Black Gum:

Native tree with a preference for moist, acidic soils, it naturally tolerates standing water, but can also tolerate periods of drought.  Once planted it cannot be moved due to a very long taproot.


Characteristics & Attributes

Attributes:

  • Fall Color
  • Native
  • Great Foliage
  • Specimen

Foliage Color:

  • Orange
  • Green
  • Red

Exposure:

  • Partial Sun
  • Full Shade

Attracts Wildlife:

  • Attracts Songbirds

Habit:

  • Upright

Season of Interest (Flowering):

  • Spring

Season of Interest (Foliage):

  • Fall

Soil Moisture:

  • Moist, Well-Drained