What is the best time to plant Nyssa sylvatica?
The best time to plant Blackgum is in the fall after leaf drop or in early spring before bud break, allowing the roots to establish before extreme weather.
Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica)
Blackgum (Nyssa sylvatica) is a medium to large deciduous tree native to eastern North America, known for its glossy leaves and vibrant fall color.
Above information is sourced from Wikipedia
Sunlight
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Watering
Moderate
Soil
Adaptable to a wide range of soils, but prefers moist, acidic, well-drained loams.
Temperature
Moderate
Habitat
Outdoor
Fertilizer
Low Feed
Care Requirements
Light
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Full sun promotes best fall color.
Water
Moderate
Keep soil consistently moist, especially when young.
Soil
Adaptable to a wide range of soils, but prefers moist, acidic, well-drained loams.
Temperature
Moderate
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C for optimal growth.
Habitat
Outdoor
Fertilizer
Low Feed
Fertilize lightly in spring if needed.
Plant Overview
Plant Type
Tree
Plant Category
Foliage, Ornamental
Plant Place Type
Ground, Garden
Plant Environment
Outdoor
Lifespan
Perennials
Plant Height
15-30 m
Spread
6-12 m
Growth Rate
Slow to Medium
Dormancy
Deciduous
Leaf Color
Green, Red, Yellow, Orange, Purple
Leaf Type
Simple, alternate, obovate to elliptic
Flower Size
0.5 cm
Image Gallery
Flowering & Fruiting Cycles
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Northern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · JunPeak fruit · Sep
FloweringFruiting
Southern hemisphere
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Peak bloom · AugPeak fruit · May
FloweringFruiting
Synonyms
Nyssa canadensis Poir.
Nyssa caroliniana Poir.
Nyssa ciliata Raf.
Nyssa integrifolia Aiton
Nyssa multiflora Elliott
Nyssa multiflora Wangenh.
Nyssa villosa Michx.
Taxonomy
- kingdomPlantae
- divisionTracheophyta
- classMagnoliopsida
- orderCornales
- familyNyssaceae
- genusNyssa
- speciesNyssa sylvatica
Toxicity
Toxic for humans
No
Rating: 0/5
Toxic for pets
No
Rating: 0/5
Edible
No
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Additional Care Tips
Water regularly, especially during the first few years and dry periods. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, but maintain consistent moisture for optimal health and fall color.
Prune in late winter or early spring while dormant to shape the tree and remove dead or crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning, especially in summer, as it can stress the tree.
Best propagated from fresh seed sown in a cold frame in autumn. Cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood in summer, but are more difficult to root.
Not applicable as this is a large tree typically planted in the ground.
FAQs
Why is my Blackgum tree not turning red in the fall?
Vibrant fall color is often enhanced by full sun exposure and cooler temperatures. Stress from drought or poor soil can also affect fall color intensity.
Does Nyssa sylvatica attract wildlife?
Yes, the small, dark fruits are a food source for birds and other wildlife, and the tree can provide habitat.
Is Blackgum susceptible to pests or diseases?
Nyssa sylvatica is generally resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance landscape tree.
Can Blackgum tolerate wet soil?
While it prefers well-drained soil, Blackgum can tolerate periodically wet conditions and is often found in swampy areas, though prolonged waterlogging should be avoided.