Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica): Spectacular Fall Color

Black gum, also known as sour gum, tupelo, or pepperidge, is a native North American tree renowned for its brilliant scarlet fall foliage and valuable nectar for bees.

Botanical Profile

Description and Features

This slow-growing deciduous tree reaches 30–50 feet tall with a pyramidal to irregular crown. Bark is dark gray, deeply furrowed. Leaves are elliptical, glossy dark green, turning intense scarlet, orange, and purple in autumn. Small greenish flowers are followed by blue-black drupes loved by birds.

Cultivation and Uses

Black gum prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It develops a deep taproot, making transplanting difficult. It is an excellent specimen tree for fall color and supports pollinators. The wood is tough, used for tool handles and flooring.

Wildlife Value

Flowers are a major nectar source for bees (tupelo honey). Fruits feed many bird species.