Nyssa aquatica aka Swamp Tupelo

Nyssa aquatica, or water tupelo, is a large, long-lived tree. It belongs to the tupelo family, Nyssaceae, and sheds its leaves. Its home range covers the central and southeastern United States. It grows in swamps, flood plains, and along deep rivers. These sites may stay flooded for much of the year. Its growth rate is moderate.

Size varies with the site and climate. North Carolina State lists heights of 60–100 feet [18–30 metres]. It gives spreads of 25–50 feet [8–15 metres]. The RHS places it above 39 feet [12 metres] tall. Its listed spread exceeds 26 feet [8 metres]. Young trees have a neat, pointed crown. Older trees develop a less even shape with spreading branches. The trunk has a broad, swollen base. Its thin, dark brown or grey bark has fine cracks. Glossy green leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They have smooth edges, though some bear a few large teeth. Fine hairs often cover their lower sides. Autumn brings yellow leaves, with orange and red also reported.

Small green-white flowers open as new leaves emerge in spring. North Carolina State gives April to May as the flowering season. Chicago records a broader March to June span. Male and female flowers usually grow on separate trees. Male flowers form groups, while female flowers grow alone. A male tree helps a female tree set fruit. Some trees take 30 years to flower and fruit. Dark purple drupes ripen in September and October. They hang from thin stalks and have tough skins. A thin layer of sour flesh surrounds each seed. People eat the fruit raw or make preserves. Plants For A Future reports no known hazards or medicinal uses.

Grow this tree in fertile soil that stays moist. It suits full sun but also accepts light shade. It tolerates poor drainage and standing water. Give it shelter from wind. Its long taproot makes moving an established tree hard. Sources place it in USDA zones 6–9 and UK rating H5. It suits pond edges, stream banks, and bogs. Few gardeners use it in home landscapes. Bees visit its flowers, which support tupelo honey production. Its soft wood supplies crates, broom handles, pulp, and veneers.

Routine upkeep is low, and serious garden problems are uncommon. Forest tent caterpillars can cause harm in some places and years. Fire damages the thin bark and lets decay fungi enter. Honey fungus may affect trees where the fungus already occurs. The RHS notes that the degree of risk remains unclear.