Nyssa sylvatica Black tupelo, Black gum

Cornaceae

Nyssa sylvatica Black tupelo, Black gum

This tree naturally occurs in swampy areas in the eastern regions of North America. But it can also grow to become a tall tree in less moist areas. The broad, pyramidal crown is formed by branches that later hang straight down. This eventually produces a broad, ovoid, almost round crown. Crown width approx. 12 m. Young branches have round lenticels. The glossy leaves are oval to inverse ovoid. They have a smooth edge, sometimes slightly lobed with the top of the leaf tapering to a point. The tree has become well-loved thanks to its autumn colour. In the autumn, the tree is especially lovely, decked out in dark red, orange and sometimes yellow tints. The colour depends on the type of soil. The roots grow very deeply, making the tree difficult to transplant.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Specifications
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Height
15 - 25 m
Width
8-12m
Crown
broad pyramidal to broad ovoid, half-open crown, capricious growing
Bark and branches
trunk dark grey and grooved, twigs greenish brown
Leaf
inverse ovoid to oval, dark green, 5 -12 cm
Autumn colour
orange, red
Flowers
unremarkable, greenish, April/May
Fruits
ovoid drupe, dark blue, Ø 0.9 - 1.5 cm
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
preferably loamy, not too dry
Soil moisture
suitable for wet soil, withstand short flood
Paving
tolerates no paving
Winter hardiness zone
5a (-28,8 to -26,1 °C)
Wind resistance
moderate
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6)
Fauna tree
valuable for bees (honey plant), provides food for birds
Application
tree containers, roof gardens
Shape
clearstem tree, feathered tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
central and eastern USA as far south as north-eastern Mexico
Clear stem tree feathered tree Multi-stem tree acid soil calcareous soil loamy soil nutrient-poor soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates no paving light-loving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) suitable for wet soil withstand short flood broad ovoid 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown green green late sprout average growing Attractive autumn colour valuable for bees (honey plant) provides food for birds non-toxic (usually) Capricious growing playground tree
Possibly of interest
Frequently asked questions
Nyssa sylvatica

Nyssa sylvatica can eventually reach a height of 15 - 25 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Nyssa sylvatica is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 15 - 25 m, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Nyssa sylvatica turn orange, red in autumn.

The right time to plant Nyssa sylvatica is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Nyssa sylvatica with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Nyssa sylvatica blooms in april, may.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.