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Description
Nyssa Sylvatica, commonly known as Black Gum, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Nyssaceae. It is native to North America and can be found in various parts of the United States, from Florida to Maine and west to Texas. The tree can grow up to 80 feet tall and has a spread of 20-30 feet.The leaves of Nyssa Sylvatica are alternate, simple, and have a glossy appearance. They turn a brilliant red color in the fall, making the tree a popular choice for autumn landscapes. The tree also produces small, greenish-white flowers in the spring, followed by dark blue, edible fruits that resemble berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Nyssaceae |
| Genus | Nyssa |
Appearance
Nyssa Sylvatica has a pyramidal shape when young, but as it matures, it becomes more rounded. The bark of the tree is gray and scaly, and the branches are often twisted and contorted. The tree produces small flowers in the spring, which are followed by clusters of dark blue, berry-like fruits. The leaves of Nyssa Sylvatica are a glossy, dark green color and turn a brilliant red in the fall.
Care Guide
Nyssa Sylvatica is a low-maintenance tree that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this tree:- Water: Nyssa Sylvatica prefers moist, well-drained soil, but it can tolerate occasional dry spells. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months.- Fertilization: Nyssa Sylvatica does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.- Soil: Nyssa Sylvatica prefers acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is not acidic, you can add sulfur to lower the pH level.- Sunlight: Nyssa Sylvatica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade, but it may not grow as vigorously.- Hardiness Zones: Nyssa Sylvatica is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nyssa Sylvatica is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases, but here are some issues to watch out for:- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use a horticultural oil spray to control the infestation.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and prune any branches that are touching the ground to improve air circulation.
Habitat
Nyssa Sylvatica is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including wetlands, swamps, and bottomland forests. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nyssa Sylvatica a good tree for fall colors?
A: Yes, Nyssa Sylvatica is known for its brilliant red fall foliage.
Q: Can Nyssa Sylvatica tolerate flooding?
A: Yes, Nyssa Sylvatica can tolerate flooding and is often found in wetland habitats.
Q: Does Nyssa Sylvatica produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, Nyssa Sylvatica produces dark blue, berry-like fruits that are edible.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Nyssa Sylvatica?
A: Nyssa Sylvatica is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Nyssa Sylvatica:- Nyssa aquatica (Water Tupelo)- Nyssa biflora (Swamp Tupelo)- Nyssa sylvatica var. biflora (Swamp Black Gum)- Nyssa ogeche (Ogeechee Lime)- Nyssa sinensis (Chinese Tupelo)
References
– “Nyssa sylvatica,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 17, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280729&isprofile=0&basic=Nyssa%20sylvatica.- “Nyssa sylvatica,” University of Florida IFAS Extension, accessed August 17, 2021, https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/st586.
