Common Names:
- Black Tupelo
- Black Gum
- Sour Gum
Phonetic Spelling:
NISS-uh sil-VAT-ih-kuh
Description:
Nyssa sylvatica is a deciduous tree that typically grows 15 to 25 meters (50 to 80 feet) tall, with a straight trunk and a rounded to pyramidal crown. It has a distinctive, irregular branching pattern. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong to ovate, measuring 5 to 12 centimeters (2 to 5 inches) long. They are glossy green in summer, turning bright red, yellow, or purple in the fall. Also produces small, greenish-white flowers in clusters in the spring. The flowers are not particularly showy but are important for attracting pollinators. The fruits are small, dark blue to black drupes, about 1 centimeter (0.4 inches) long. They ripen in late summer to fall and are an important food source for wildlife.
Distribution/Location:
Native to eastern North America, from southern Ontario and Maine south to Florida and Texas. It is found in a variety of habitats across this range.
Environmental Concerns:
Conservation efforts include habitat protection and management to ensure healthy populations. The tree is resilient and can thrive in various conditions, which aids its health and wide abundancy!
Additional Notes:
IMPORTANT: Black Tupelo is a keystone species in many forest ecosystems. It provides habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds, bees, and mammals. Its fruits are especially important for migratory birds
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