Black Gum
Nyssa sylvatica · Deciduous, Broadleaf, Hardwood
Plant Family
Nyssaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree, Ornamental, Forest Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (wild type); valued for its brilliant red autumn color.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 3 through 9, showing high adaptability to varying temperate climate conditions.
About This Tree
A medium to large deciduous tree with an upright, pyramidal form when young that often becomes somewhat irregular, rounded, or flat-topped at maturity. Features a dense crown and a slow to moderate growth rate, renowned for its spectacular brilliant red fall foliage.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate leaves, elliptic to obovate in shape, 2 to 5 inches long, with smooth margins (entire) or occasionally a few teeth near the apex. Dark green and glossy above, turning vivid shades of scarlet, orange, purple, and yellow in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Dark gray to brownish-black, becoming deeply furrowed and broken into blocky plates or alligator-hide ridges as the tree ages, serving as a reliable identification feature.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern and Central North America, native from Ontario down to Florida and Texas.
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring, produces small inconspicuous greenish-white flowers in spring, develops dark blue fruits in late summer to autumn, and enters dormancy in late autumn after vibrant red leaf drop.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils but adapts to poorly drained clay sites once established. Moderate drought tolerance once mature.
Mature Size
Expected mature height of 30 to 50 feet (sometimes up to 75 feet in ideal conditions), with a spread of 20 to 30 feet. Moderate growth rate with a lifespan often exceeding 100 years.
Special Characteristics
Exceptional fall color, highly tolerant of wet soils and temporary flooding, resistant to most major pests and diseases, and produces hard wood that resists splitting.
Wildlife & Ecology
Fruits (drupes) are eagerly consumed by numerous songbirds, wild turkeys, and small mammals. The flowers provide an abundant nectar source for bees and other pollinators, making it an ecologically valuable addition to native woodlands.