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| Nyssa sylvatica
Black gum,Black tupeloCulture: This species is difficult to transplant and rather picky about its siting. Despite this limitation, the black tupelo is well worth the effort. Because of the difficulty in transplanting, this species is usually offered in smaller sizes as B&B specimens or in containers. Newly transplanted trees take about two years to fully establish, but after that will grow rather quickly. Moist, acidic to neutral soils are a basic necessity, and it prefers full sun. Although not significant, this species does have occasional problems with leaf spots, rusts, cankers, scales, and leaf miners. Usage: This handsome species is best used as an accent plant, shade tree or street tree given the right conditions, but care must be taken to keep it in a pollution-free environment. In autumn, the fall coloration is spectacular; I remember driving through the University of Illinois campus and seeing one from several blocks away. As I approached it, I noticed several families all taking pictures with it as a scarlet red backdrop. |
