Contents
Description
Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora is a deciduous tree that is native to the eastern United States. It is commonly known as Black Gum, Tupelo, or Sour Gum. This tree species can grow up to 50-80 feet tall with a trunk diameter of up to 2-3 feet. It produces small, greenish-yellow flowers in the spring and its leaves turn bright red in the fall. Its fruit is a dark blue, edible berry that is a favorite of many birds and mammals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cornales |
| Family: | Nyssaceae |
| Genus: | Nyssa |
| Species: | Sylvatica |
| Variety: | Biflora |
Appearance
The leaves of Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora are dark green and glossy with a slightly wavy edge. They are oval-shaped and can grow up to 5 inches long. The bark of the tree is dark gray and deeply furrowed. The tree has a broad, pyramidal shape when young and becomes more upright as it matures. Its branches are also upright and its twigs are slender and brown with visible white lenticels.
Care Guide
Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora requires regular watering, especially during its first year of growth. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The tree should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. It thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. This tree can grow in hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and canker. Insects such as scale, leafhoppers, and borers can also infest the tree.
Habitat
Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora is commonly found in wetlands, swamps, and along riverbanks. It grows well in areas with high moisture content in the soil. It is a popular tree for landscaping due to its attractive foliage and fruit.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora?
A: You should water the tree regularly, especially during its first year of growth. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora?
A: This tree can grow in hardiness zones 4-9.
Q: What type of soil does Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora prefer?
A: It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Q: What is the fruit of Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora used for?
A: Its fruit is a dark blue, edible berry that is a favorite of many birds and mammals.
Related Plants
- Nyssa Sylvestris
- Nyssa Ogeche
- Nyssa Aquatica
- Cornus Florida
- Magnolia Grandiflora
References
- “Nyssa Sylvatica.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=k680.
- “Nyssa Sylvatica.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/black-gum.
- “Nyssa Sylvatica Var. Biflora.” North Carolina State University, 29 Apr. 2019, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/nyssa-sylvatica-var-biflora/.
