Species
Nyssa sylvaticaBlack Tupelo2 other cultivars
The Story
Plant Bio
Nyssa sylvatica is a deciduous tree native to eastern and central North America, known for its deeply ridged bark and exceptional autumn foliage. The species naturally develops an irregular, spreading habit and produces inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in spring that support native pollinators.
'Green Gable' is a patented cultivar selected for its upright, pyramidal form, dominant central leader, and highly uniform branching. The glossy, dark green leaves show strong resistance to leaf spot before turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and purple in fall.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
600"
Width
420"
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Spring
In flower about 3 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with moist, acidic, organic soil.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the root flare sits slightly above the surrounding soil grade.
- Backfill with native soil, water deeply to settle the roots, and apply a thick layer of organic mulch to retain moisture.
- Water regularly during dry spells for the first few years to establish the deep taproot system.
Pro Tip
Plant container-grown or root-bagged specimens while young to avoid disturbing the sensitive, fleshy taproot characteristic of the species, and expect slow initial root establishment before rapid upward growth begins.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water young trees deeply and regularly during dry periods to support root establishment.
- Apply a balanced, slow-release acidic fertilizer in early spring if soil tests indicate nutrient deficiencies.
- Maintain a generous layer of organic mulch around the base to preserve soil moisture and cool roots.
Don't
- Do not attempt to transplant established trees due to their sensitive, fleshy taproot system.
- Do not prune heavily into old, leafless wood, as regrowth from old wood is slow and patchy.
- Do not over-fertilize, as this cultivar requires minimal supplemental nutrients once established.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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 Gum questions
What zones can Black Gum grow in?
Black 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 Gum deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Black Gum, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Black Gum bloom?
Black Gum typically blooms in spring through spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Black Gum need full sun?
Black Gum does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Black Gum drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Black Gum handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Nyssa to compare
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Grow Black Gum with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.