Nyssa sylvatica
Black Gum, Sour Gum
Commonly known as the Sour Gum, this is an attractive tree grown for its fantastic autumn colours. The foliage emerges light green in spring, ages to darker green, then develops bright orange tones in autumn before falling. Small, green-white flowers are borne in spring, and whilst they are somewhat inconspicuous, the nectar they produce is great for attracting birds. These result in dark blue berries which also attract birds. This deciduous tree grows with a pyramidal shape and forms a rounded crown as it ages, eventually reaching 12 m tall and 8 m wide. It can be contained with trimming and performs best when planted in full sun or partial shade on a well-drained site. It will tolerate frost, cool climates, and poorly drained soils. This tree makes for an excellent specimen and is well suited to using in avenue plantings where its autumn colours will be a site to behold.
