Nyssa sylvatica 'Wildfire'
Black gum Tree
DESCRIPTION
Black gum TreeNyssa sylvatica 'Wildfire'
This tree bursts into color with a bright red foliage flush in spring followed by white flowers that are a nectar source for native insect and the birds that feed on them. Flowers give way to dark blue fruits that are attractive to birds. Stunning fall foliage is scarlet, yellow and orange.
BENEFITS
Heavy nectar producer, drawing all kinds of pollinatorsInsect eating birds visit the tree to feed on pollinators
Excellent fruit for a number of birds
Beautiful in the fall with multiple foliage colors on one tree
Will grow in wet as well as dry soils
NATIVE INFO
Native Range
Low woods and swamps from Maine and southern Ontario west to Minnesota and south to Texas and Florida.
Interesting Facts
The tree also goes by the common name Sour Gum because its abundant fruit, though technically edible, is quite sour. Birds can't get enough of the fruit and beekeepers value the nectar for making quality honey.
GROWING TIPS
Easy to grow in full sun to part shade. A big tree, so give it plenty of room to reach full growth. Will grow in a variety of conditions from boggy soils to dry, sandy ones. Plant in masses to assure berry set.