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Nyssa sylvatica

tupelo

A small, slow-growing deciduous tree of elegant, broadly conical habit. Ovate leaves to 15cm in length turn brilliant red and yellow in autumn. Flowers and fruits inconspicuous

Other common names
black gum tree
common tupelo tree
see morecotton gum
pepperidge
sour gum tree
Synonyms
Nyssa multiflora
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Green
Autumn Orange Red Yellow Black Blue
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Nyssaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Nyssa are deciduous trees with ovate leaves colouring brilliantly in autumn; inconspicuous flowers are followed by small, dull purple fruits

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Eastern N America

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in moist, humus-rich, fertile soils with shelter from cold, dry winds. Resents transplanting so grow from small containerised plants

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in a seedbed in autumn or by softwood cuttings in early summer or semi-hardwood cuttings in mid-summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility

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