Identifying a Mystery Tree: Black Tupelo (Blackgum)

Key Features from Photos

• Rough bark.
• Simple oval leaves 3–4″.
• Dark blue-black berries, oval, single large seed, little flesh.
• Berries on 2–3″ stems, single per stem.
• Fruit smells like locust bean when crushed.
• ~25 ft tall.

Identification

Black Tupelo / Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica) — native to Southeast US, including South Carolina. Fits all details.

Confirmation

Compare with Virginia Tech Dendrology factsheet. Or consult SC Forestry Commission forester.