Trees

Nyssa sylvatica

Black gum

Black gum at the Arnold Arboretum, Boston.

Glossy green summer leaves give way to vivid autumn color on this native shade tree. Its branching outline and small dark fruits add interest beyond the fall display. Plant while young in a site with room for the crown, and maintain moisture while the root system establishes.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Size: Height: 40 ft.–70 ft. · Width: About 20–35 ft.
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9

Sizes & prices

#7Select cultivar. Bright red new$124.99
#20Black Gum/Tupelo Tree$399.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Shade tree; Ornamental specimen
Form: Columnar; Irregular; Pyramidal; Rounded; Spreading
Growth rate: Medium
Pollination: Female trees need a male pollen source for reliable fruiting
Fruit / litter: Blue-black fruits feed birds; crops vary with flower sex and pollination
Major issues: Species guidance: leaf miners and scale can occur; leaf spots, cankers and rust are occasional concerns.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Listed as resistant; protect young trees from browsing and antler rubbing.
Drought: Tolerant once established; water during establishment and prolonged dry spells.
Wet soil: Tolerates occasional flooding and wet soil.
Heat: Tolerant.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Bees

Native range

Native range / parentage: Southern Ontario, Central and Eastern United States, and Mexico Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Species native to Kentucky.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous

Growing & care

Pruning: Prune for sound structure while young; remove dead, damaged or crossing branches. Most routine pruning is best during dormancy.
Soil: Moist, well-drained; Occasional Flooding; brief dry periods tolerated; occasional wetness tolerated

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: Bostonian13 · CC BY-SA 3.0

Image notes: Black gum at the Arnold Arboretum, Boston. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.