Nyssa sylvatica - Tupelo / Black Gum

Nyssa sylvatica, commonly known as Tupelo or Black Gum, is a seriously beautiful tree that deserves far more attention in Australian gardens. With some of the most spectacular autumn colour of any deciduous tree — deep reds, scarlet, orange, and sometimes purple, often all on the one tree — it's a genuine showstopper.

Its glossy green summer foliage is clean and rarely chewed, giving it a tidy, elegant look all season long. Come autumn, it transforms into something extraordinary.

Note: Nyssa sylvatica performs best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Ask us in-store if you're unsure whether it's right for your conditions.

What makes it special

• Autumn colour: Outstanding — deep reds, scarlet, orange, and purple, all on the one tree
• Form: Strong central leader, neat pyramidal shape when young, broadening with age
• Foliage: Glossy green in summer, very clean look (rarely chewed)
• Bird attracting: Small dark berries loved by native birds

Size & growth

• Approximate height: 8–15m
• Approximate width: 5–10m
• Growth rate: Slow to moderate

Growing conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Well-drained, slightly acidic preferred
• Water: Regular while establishing; moderately drought tolerant once mature
• Frost hardy