Tupelo Nyssa sylvatica
ABOUT
Nyssa sylvatica, commonly known as Tupelo, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It typically grows 30 to 50 feet tall, with a trunk diameter of 1 to 2 feet. The tree has a pyramidal to oval shape when young, but matures to a more irregular, spreading form.
The leaves of Nyssa sylvatica are simple and alternate, with a glossy green color and an oval to elliptical shape. They are 3 to 6 inches long and 1 to 3 inches wide, with a slightly wavy edge and a pointed tip. In the fall, the leaves turn a brilliant red, orange, or purple, making the tree a popular choice for autumn landscapes.
Nyssa sylvatica produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, followed by dark blue, berry-like fruit in the fall. The fruit is a favorite of birds and other wildlife.
The bark of the tree is dark gray to black and deeply furrowed, adding to its ornamental value in the winter landscape. The wood of Nyssa sylvatica is strong, hard, and durable, and is used for furniture, flooring, and other applications.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Nyssaceae
Synonyms
Tupelo, Black gum tree, Common tupelo tree, Cotton gum, Pepperidge, Sour gum tree
Common names
Nyssa multiflora
ToxicityTo humans
Nyssa sylvatica is not considered toxic to humans.
The tree is not known to have any adverse effects when ingested or touched, and there are no reports of skin irritation or allergic reactions. However, as with any plant, it is recommended to wash hands after handling the tree to avoid potential irritation from sap or other plant parts.To pets
Nyssa sylvatica is not toxic to most animals and is actually a valuable food source for wildlife. The fruit of the tree is a favorite of birds, including woodpeckers, thrushes, and warblers, as well as squirrels and other small mammals. The leaves and twigs of the tree are also browsed by deer and other herbivores.
However, there is one animal that can be affected by Nyssa sylvatica: horses. The leaves of the tree contain tannins, which can cause a condition known as "red water" in horses. Red water is a form of hemolytic anemia, in which the red blood cells are destroyed and the urine becomes red or brown in color.
ngesting large quantities of Nyssa sylvatica leaves can lead to this condition in horses. Therefore, it is recommended to keep horses away from the tree or to remove any fallen leaves or branches from pastures or paddocks.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green; yellow and orange in fall
Flower color
Green
Height
Up to 50 feet
Spread
Up to 30 feet
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
3
Native area
North America
Benefits
General BenefitsAesthetic appeal: Nyssa sylvatica is an attractive ornamental tree with vibrant fall foliage that ranges from deep red to purple.
Ecological value: The tree is a valuable food source for wildlife, including birds and mammals, and provides habitat for many species.
Soil stabilization: The deep root system of Nyssa sylvatica makes it an effective plant for stabilizing soil on slopes or near bodies of water.
Carbon sequestration: As a large, long-lived tree, Nyssa sylvatica is able to absorb and store significant amounts of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Shade and cooling: The dense canopy of Nyssa sylvatica provides shade and can help to reduce temperatures in urban areas, reducing the need for air conditioning and energy use.
Timber: The wood of Nyssa sylvatica is strong and durable, making it suitable for use in construction and furniture-making.
Medical PropertiesWhile Nyssa sylvatica has been used in traditional medicine, there is limited scientific research on its potential medical properties. However, here are some reported uses:
Anti-inflammatory: Some studies suggest that extracts from the bark of Nyssa sylvatica may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could potentially be useful in treating conditions such as arthritis.
Antioxidant: Compounds found in Nyssa sylvatica have been shown to have antioxidant properties, which could help to protect against damage from oxidative stress and potentially benefit cardiovascular health.
Antimicrobial: The leaves and bark of Nyssa sylvatica contain compounds that have been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which could be useful in treating certain infections.
Diuretic: In traditional medicine, Nyssa sylvatica has been used as a diuretic to help increase urine production and treat conditions such as edema.
It's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential medical benefits of Nyssa sylvatica, and it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment without the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Other UsesWoodworking: The wood of Nyssa sylvatica is strong and durable, and has been used in woodworking to make furniture, flooring, and tool handles.
Dyeing: The bark of Nyssa sylvatica contains tannins that can be used as a natural dye to produce shades of brown and green.
Wildlife habitat: Nyssa sylvatica is a valuable source of food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects.
Ornamental: Nyssa sylvatica is a popular ornamental tree, prized for its attractive foliage and fall color. It is often planted in parks and gardens, as well as along streets and highways.
Interesting Facts
Plant SymbolismNyssa sylvatica is sometimes referred to as the "tupelo tree," and it is considered a symbol of resilience and adaptability. This is due in part to its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions, as well as its resistance to disease and pests.
In some Native American cultures, Nyssa sylvatica is associated with the element of water and is believed to have purifying and cleansing properties.
In folklore, the hollow trunks of Nyssa sylvatica trees were sometimes used as a hiding place for witches or other magical creatures. The tree was believed to have protective powers, and it was thought that hanging a horseshoe on a tupelo tree would ward off evil spirits.
The vibrant red and orange leaves of Nyssa sylvatica in the fall are sometimes associated with themes of transformation and change.
WaterNyssa sylvatica prefers consistently moist soil, but it can tolerate periods of drought once established. When watering, it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Aim to water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering frequency in the fall and winter.
LightNyssa sylvatica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to poor growth and reduced fall color.
TemperatureNyssa sylvatica is native to the eastern United States and is well-adapted to a range of temperatures. It is generally hardy in USDA zones 4-9, which means it can tolerate minimum temperatures as low as -30°F in some regions.
In warmer regions, it can tolerate temperatures up to 100°F or higher, but it may benefit from some shade during the hottest parts of the day.
SoilNyssa sylvatica prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, from sandy to clay, but prefers soil that is moist and rich in organic matter.
Humidity & MistingNyssa sylvatica can tolerate a range of humidity levels, but it prefers a moderately humid environment. But, excessive humidity or standing water around the roots can lead to root rot, so it's important to ensure good drainage.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Not growing
Outdoor
All year round
Hardiness zone
USDA 4 - 11
Life cycleNyssa sylvatica is a deciduous tree that typically grows up to 60-80 feet tall and 20-30 feet wide. The tree has a pyramidal shape when young, but develops a rounded crown with age.
In its juvenile stage, Nyssa sylvatica has smooth, gray bark that gradually becomes deeply furrowed as the tree matures. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, which are followed by green, berry-like fruits that ripen to a dark blue-black color in the fall.
As the tree enters its adult stage, it begins to develop a dense, spreading root system and a more rounded crown. The leaves of Nyssa sylvatica are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. In the fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red before falling from the tree.
As the tree enters its final stage, it may begin to show signs of decline, such as dead or dying branches, reduced growth, and a thinner canopy. Ultimately, Nyssa sylvatica will die and return to the soil, where it will decompose and provide nutrients for new growth.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring - summer
Seed:
Collect seeds in the fall and sow them immediately or store them in a cool, dry place until spring. Seeds require stratification before planting. Place the seeds in a moist, well-draining medium and refrigerate for 90-120 days before sowing in the spring.
Cuttings:
Take cuttings in the early summer from young, healthy trees. Use a rooting hormone to promote rooting and plant the cuttings in a well-draining medium.
Layering:
Bend a low branch of the tree down to the ground and cover a portion of it with soil. Allow the branch to root into the soil while still attached to the parent tree. Once the roots have formed, cut the branch from the parent tree and transplant it to a new location.
PestsScale insects, Aphid, Japanese beetle, Caterpillar
DiseasesAnthracnose, Root Rot, Powdery mildew, Leaf spot
