Nyssa sylvatica ~ Black Gum Tree

Black Gum Tree is a slow-growing deciduous tree with straight trunk and rounded crown that is native to the south east.  The lightly toothed shiny dark green foliage turns a spectacular scarlet in fall.  The clusters of non-showy greenish-white flowers are an excellent source of nectar for pollinators.  The flowers give way to small incredibly sour blue-black berries in fall.  Best grown in part sun and well-drained soils.   Type:  Tree Height:  30’ - 50’ Spread:  20’ - 30’ Spacing:  25’ USDA Hardiness Zone:  3 - 9 Culture:  Full Sun, Part Sun Bloom Color:  White Season of Interest: Fall MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance.  Scale, rust, canker, and leaf spots can be occasional problems.  Can tolerate both standing water and some drought. LANDSCAPE USES:  Accents or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Naturalized Areas, Shade Tree, and Privacy Screen.  COMPANION PLANTS: Bald Cypress, Swamp Oak, Swamp Rosemallow IMAGE: Bostonian