Description
Gum, Black (Nyssa sylvatica)
Zone 4-9
Full sun to partial shade tolerant
These trees often reach a mature height of 40 to 70 feet and a spread of 20 to 30 feet, with a straight trunk with the branches extending outward at right angles. The bark is dark gray and flaky when young, but it becomes furrowed with age. The flowers this tree produces are very small, in greenish-white in clusters at the top of a long stalk and a rich source of nectar for bees. Black gum is best grown in areas with acidic, medium to wet, well-drained soils and full sun to part shade.
