Black Tupelo

Nyssa sylvatica

The black gum, aka “tupelo,” is famous for its brilliant fall color, small purple fruit, and as the source of tupelo honey!

Size and Light Requirements

The black gum thrives under partial shade to full sun. A slow-grower, black gums typically reach 30 feet in height in about 40 years.

Plant This Tree

This tree is available through our residential planting program, RiverSmart Homes. You can also get up to $100 back for planting this tree yourself through our tree rebate program.

Find Another Tree

All the trees in this guide have been selected by Casey Trees and are well adapted to the soil and conditions present in Washington, DC.

Photo Credits

mollsie, Charles T. Bryson, Tom Potterfield, Jay Sturner, Jan Macario