Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum
Nyssa sylvatica
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
500 inches
Width
300 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium to Wet
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
100+ years
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
Nyssa sylvatica is a medium to large deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It typically grows with a pyramidal habit in youth, maturing to a rounded crown. Valued for its glossy green summer foliage and spectacular scarlet, orange, and purple fall color. Inconspicuous, greenish-white flowers appear in spring and are a valuable nectar source for bees. This species is known for its tolerance of wet soils and its ability to attract various bird species, making it an excellent choice for wildlife gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a well-drained site with full sun to partial shade.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth.
- Tuck seeds or young plants into the prepared hole, ensuring proper root placement.
- Water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots, keeping moist but not waterlogged.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer for healthy growth.
Pro Tip
Plant in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil for optimal growth and vibrant foliage.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during dry periods 🌱
- Prune to maintain shape after leaf fall
- Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Do not fertilize late in the season
- Avoid heavy pruning in late summer
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum questions
What zones can Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum grow in?
Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum deer resistant?
Yes — Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum bloom?
Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum typically blooms in spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum need full sun?
Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
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See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
