Nyssa sylvatica aka Black Tupelo

Taxonomy

Nyssa sylvatica, commonly known as tupelo, black tupelo, black gum, or sour gum, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that can be found in eastern North America, southern Ontario, and Mexico. It grows up to 35 meters tall, with a straight trunk and branches extending outward at right angles. The bark is dark gray and flaky when young, but becomes furrowed and resembling alligator hide on old stems. The leaves are variable in size and shape, with lustrous upper surfaces and wavy margins. They turn purple in autumn, eventually becoming a bright scarlet. The flowers are small and greenish-white, in clusters at the top of a long stalk, and a rich source of nectar for bees. The Blackgum tree is found in dry upland forests, savannas, swamp margins, upland depressions, and in the hills and mountains on dry slopes with oaks and hickories. It has a polygamodioecious flowering habit, and the nectar from its flowers is highly prized for making Tupelo honey. However, deer are fond of the leaves on seedlings and saplings, which can make establishment of the tree almost impossible in large populations.

Common names

Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum, Tupelo

How to care for Black Tupelo

Difficulty

Black Tupelo presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Black Tupelo should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

If you're planting Black Tupelo, you need to make sure you use a potting soil that can retain moisture. While the soil should still be able to drain well, it should contain plenty of organic matter like coco coir or sphagnum moss to help it stay moist and nourish the roots of your plants. This is especially important since Tupelo is especially sensitive to dry soil. You can also add other amendments, such as compost, to help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients to your plants. Be sure to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing season. With the right soil and proper care, your Black Tupelo will thrive!

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Black Tupelo prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Fertilizer

The Black Tupelo is characterized by its slow growth and doesn't need fertilization in addition to its potting soil. By renewing the soil in its pot once a year, it should have enough nutrition. Remember, plants get their energy from sunlight, not from any fertilizers.

Region of origin

Black Tupelo’s native range is Eastern N. America - Maine to Florida, west to Ontario and Texas.


More info:
Wikipedia