Tupelo, Black Gum
nyssa sylvatica
Also known as: ["Black Gum","Pepperidge"]
Overview
A deciduous tree known for its brilliant autumn foliage and small, blue-black fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Nyssaceae |
| Genus: | Nyssa |
| Botanical Name: | Nyssa sylvatica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden, prefers partial shade in hotter climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–28–43°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Well-draining to moderately moist soil.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on mature trees
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates more shade but may produce fewer flowers and denser foliage.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in shaded areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer; adjust exposure based on seasonal light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
moist, well-drained, acidic loam
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic (pH 5.0–6.5).
Ensure good drainage; maintain organic matter; adjust pH if necessary with sulfur or lime.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9. Prefers temperate climates with cold winters and moderate summers. Tolerates temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C) but thrives in 60–75°F (15–24°C).
Protect from extreme cold with mulch; water deeply in heat; adjust care based on seasonal temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
annually in early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize only if growth is poor; use a balanced formula; avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that can promote weak growth.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is common, though slow. Softwood cuttings can be attempted but have lower success rates.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect mature seeds, cold stratify for 3 months, sow in spring.
- For cuttings, take 4–6 inch softwood cuttings, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring for seeds (after cold stratification); early summer for cuttings.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light for cuttings; consistent moisture for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used for cuttings to improve success rates.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate and several years to reach significant size. Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Cold stratify seeds for better germination; use bottom heat for cuttings; maintain high humidity for successful rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back of overgrown branches, and removal of crossing or rubbing limbs.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and improve air circulation. Focus on structural pruning when young.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts just above buds or branches.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Gently remove the plant, prune any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted as it is usually grown in the ground. If container-grown, repot every 2–3 years to refresh soil and accommodate root growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; prune roots if necessary; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply to ensure penetration to the root system, allowing excess to drain away. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during the growing season, reducing frequency in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture levels.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold stress; stunted growth in unsuitable temperatures.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl or drop; branches can become brittle; growth may slow or stop during dormancy.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots; protect from harsh winds; avoid watering before freezing temperatures to prevent ice damage.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop; reduced flowering; increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation to reduce heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Test soil before fertilizing; apply in early spring; use sparingly; avoid late-season fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, especially in established trees. Reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer to avoid stimulating late-season growth vulnerable to frost.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicNyssa sylvatica is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would cause harm to feline health upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicNyssa sylvatica is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would pose a risk to canine health upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicNyssa sylvatica, commonly known as the tupelo or black gum tree, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Nyssa sylvatica have invasive roots?
A: No, it has non-invasive roots and is suitable for planting near structures.
Q: What is the best soil type for Tupelo?
A: It thrives in moist, acidic, well-drained soils.
Q: When does Nyssa sylvatica bloom?
A: It blooms in spring with small, greenish-white flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Nyssaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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