Nyssa sylvatica

Nyssa sylvaticaSizes available: TBD Basics: zones 3 9, 40 100' x 20 35' canopy at maturity, sun to part shade, primarily dioecious although individuals may also have perfect flowers present, tiny greenish white flowers in late spring when tree is about 1 2 leafed out followed by blue black drupes (berries) ripening in early fall (on the female tree), prefers well drained acidic soils and consistent moisture, but is very adaptable and can tolerate both drought and

Sizes available: TBD

Basics: zones 3-9, 40-100' x 20-35' canopy at maturity, sun to part shade, primarily dioecious although individuals may also have perfect flowers present, tiny greenish-white flowers in late spring when tree is about 1/2 leafed out followed by blue-black drupes (berries) ripening in early fall (on the female tree), prefers well-drained acidic soils and consistent moisture, but is very adaptable and can tolerate both drought and seasonal inundation.

Common names: Black Gum, Black Tipelo, Sour Gum, Pepperidge, Beetlebung, Cotton Gum

Family: Cornaceae (Nyssaceae)

Origin/Distribution: Parts of south central Canada into Michigan, Illinois, and southeastern Missouri, east to southern Maine and down the coast to northern Florida, west into Texas and into parts of Mexico. Native to Maine.

Habitat: Occurs in both uplands and wetlands in a variety of soils.

More: Has been used medicinally. The wood has been used for tool handles and weapons. Slow growing. Beautiful red fall color. Much more information coming soon.

Source: whips from Cold Stream Farm

Image credits: Wikimedia Commons: fall color and botanical illustration