{"title":"Gum Trees","description":"\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003eWelcome to the \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"3\" data-index-in-node=\"15\"\u003eNyssa\u003c\/i\u003e Collection, a curated showcase of one of North America and East Asia’s most spectacular yet underappreciated genera of deciduous trees. Commonly known as Tupelos, Pepperidges, or Gum trees (not to be confused with the Australian \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"3\" data-index-in-node=\"250\"\u003eEucalyptus\u003c\/i\u003e), members of the genus \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"3\" data-index-in-node=\"284\"\u003eNyssa\u003c\/i\u003e are legendary for their architectural elegance, ecological vital role, and a fiery autumn display that rivals any maple.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003eThe genus is named after Nyssa, a water nymph in Greek mythology—a fitting tribute, as many of these species thrive in wet, swampy soils where other trees falter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003eCollection Highlights \u0026amp; Species to See\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"6\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eBlack Tupelo \/ Black Gum (\u003ci data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"26\"\u003eNyssa sylvatica\u003c\/i\u003e):\u003c\/b\u003e The crown jewel of the collection. Renowned for its glossy, dark green summer foliage that transforms into an explosion of incandescent scarlet, orange, purple, and yellow in the autumn. Notice its distinct, horizontal branching pattern and deeply furrowed, alligator-like bark on mature specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eWater Tupelo (\u003ci data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"14\"\u003eNyssa aquatica\u003c\/i\u003e):\u003c\/b\u003e A true titan of the wetlands. Look for the dramatically swollen, buttressed bases of these trees—a fascinating evolutionary adaptation that stabilizes them in deep, standing water and muddy swamps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSwamp Tupelo (\u003ci data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"14\"\u003eNyssa biflora\u003c\/i\u003e):\u003c\/b\u003e Often found intermingling with \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"61\"\u003eN. aquatica\u003c\/i\u003e, this species features narrower leaves and pairs of flowers, thriving in coastal plains and flowing blackwater streams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"6,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eChinese Tupelo (\u003ci data-path-to-node=\"6,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"16\"\u003eNyssa sinensis\u003c\/i\u003e):\u003c\/b\u003e A stunning Asian counterpart that boasts larger, elongated leaves. Its new spring growth emerges in shades of bronze and purple before settling into summer green and finishing the year in brilliant red.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003eEcological Value: The \"Bee Gum\" and Wildlife Lifeline\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8\"\u003eBeyond their ornamental beauty, \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"8\" data-index-in-node=\"32\"\u003eNyssa\u003c\/i\u003e trees are ecological powerhouses. In the spring, they produce small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers that are a magnet for pollinators. They are the source of the highly prized, premium \u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8\" data-index-in-node=\"229\"\u003eTupelo Honey\u003c\/b\u003e, which is distinctively sweet and uniquely resistant to crystallization.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"9\"\u003eIn the late summer and autumn, the flowers give way to small, dark blue, cherry-like fruits (drupes). While bitter to humans, these fruits are a vital, high-fat food source for migrating songbirds, wild turkeys, foxes, and black bears. Additionally, as older trees age, they naturally form hollows, providing crucial nesting habitats for owls, raccoons, and tree ducks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"10\"\u003eLandscape and Conservation Importance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"11\"\u003eAs climate patterns shift, the \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"11\" data-index-in-node=\"31\"\u003eNyssa\u003c\/i\u003e collection highlights the importance of adaptable urban trees. Many cultivars of \u003ci data-path-to-node=\"11\" data-index-in-node=\"118\"\u003eNyssa sylvatica\u003c\/i\u003e (such as 'Wildfire' or 'Green Gable') have been selected for their straight central leaders and reliable form, making them excellent choices for parks, street plantings, and rain gardens. They possess a high tolerance for both clay soils and occasional drought once established, making them as resilient as they are beautiful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"12\"\u003e\u003ci data-path-to-node=\"12\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eAs you wander through the collection, we invite you to look up at the unique layering of the canopy, listen for the birds drawn to its fruit, and, if you visit during the fall, immerse yourself in some of the most vibrant colors nature has to offer.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"black-gum-tree","title":"Black Gum Tree","description":"\u003ch1 data-path-to-node=\"0\"\u003eBlack Gum Tree (Nyssa sylvatica)\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"1\"\u003eThe Black Gum—also commonly known as the Black Tupelo or Pepperidge—is a premier native North American hardwood celebrated for its spectacular seasonal transformations and architectural symmetry. In the summer, it showcases a glossy, dark green canopy that looks almost polished. When autumn arrives, it steals the spotlight as one of the absolute best fall-color trees on the market, erupting into a brilliant, multi-toned display of fiery scarlet, deep purple, glowing orange, and vivid yellow.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"2\"\u003eWith its straight trunk and distinctively horizontal, alligator-patterned bark that adds immense winter interest, the Black Gum is a standout choice for an ornamental shade tree. It is highly adaptable, deeply rooted, and offers an unmatched blend of rugged durability and elite aesthetic appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003eThe Ecological Footprint\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"4,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"4,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eAvian Oasis:\u003c\/b\u003e Produces small, dark blue, high-fat fruits in late summer that serve as a critical energy source for migrating songbirds, wild turkeys, and local wildlife.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"4,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"4,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003ePollinator Magnet:\u003c\/b\u003e While the spring flowers are small, they are exceptionally rich in nectar, making this tree a favorite for honeybees and the source of the famous, high-quality Tupelo honey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"4,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"4,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eStormwater Champion:\u003c\/b\u003e Highly tolerant of poorly drained, soggy soils, making it an excellent natural tool for rain gardens, low spots, and managing urban runoff.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"4,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"4,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eDeeply Anchored:\u003c\/b\u003e Develops a robust, deep taproot that stabilizes the surrounding soil and provides excellent resistance against high wind and storm damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003eThe Honest Harvest (What to Expect)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"6\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eThe Perks:\u003c\/b\u003e World-class autumn foliage, highly resistant to pests and diseases, excellent tolerance for both city pollution and wet soils, and an incredibly long lifespan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eThe Caveats:\u003c\/b\u003e Growth is slow and steady, requiring patience before it reaches its full shade potential. Because of its deep taproot, it must be planted in its forever home early, as it resents being transplanted once established. Female trees will drop small fruits in late summer, which may require minor cleanup near walkways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eBotanical Name:\u003c\/b\u003e Nyssa sylvatica\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eCommon Names:\u003c\/b\u003e Black Gum, Black Tupelo, Pepperidge, Sour Gum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eMature Height:\u003c\/b\u003e 30–50 feet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eMature Width:\u003c\/b\u003e 20–30 feet\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,4,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,4,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eGrowth Rate:\u003c\/b\u003e Slow to Medium (12–18 inches per year)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,5,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,5,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eLifespan:\u003c\/b\u003e 100–250+ years\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,6,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,6,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eUSDA Zones:\u003c\/b\u003e 4–9\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,7,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,7,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eChill Hours:\u003c\/b\u003e *\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,7,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,7,0\" data-index-in-node=\"15\"\u003eSun Preference:\u003c\/b\u003e Full sun to partial shade (Best fall color occurs in full sun)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,8,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,8,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSoil Type:\u003c\/b\u003e Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils; highly tolerant of poorly drained, wet sites and heavy clay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,9,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,9,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSoil pH:\u003c\/b\u003e Acidic to neutral (4.5–6.5; avoids alkaline soils)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,10,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,10,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eWater Needs:\u003c\/b\u003e Moderate to high; thrives in wet conditions but possesses surprising drought tolerance once established\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,11,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,11,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eFlower Color:\u003c\/b\u003e Inconspicuous greenish-white; spring\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,12,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,12,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eFruit Type:\u003c\/b\u003e Small, fleshy, dark blue drupes (berries)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,13,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,13,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003ePollinators:\u003c\/b\u003e *\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,13,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,13,0\" data-index-in-node=\"15\"\u003eGrowth Habit:\u003c\/b\u003e Pyramidal when young, maturing to a stately, flat-topped, rounded canopy with distinct horizontal branches\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,14,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,14,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSpacing:\u003c\/b\u003e 20–30 feet apart\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,15,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,15,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eLandscape Uses:\u003c\/b\u003e Specimen tree, street tree, shade tree, rain gardens, native plantings\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"8,16,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"8,16,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eMaintenance Level:\u003c\/b\u003e Low\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-path-to-node=\"9\"\u003ePlanting \u0026amp; Care Guide\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-path-to-node=\"10\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eHydration:\u003c\/b\u003e Give the root ball a thorough soaking before planting and maintain consistent, deep watering during its first two growing seasons to ensure proper establishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSiting:\u003c\/b\u003e Select your planting location carefully. Because of its sensitive taproot, choose a permanent spot where it won’t need to be moved in the future.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eMulching:\u003c\/b\u003e Apply a 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base to keep roots cool and preserve moisture, making sure the mulch does not directly touch the bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,3,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eEstablishment:\u003c\/b\u003e Monitor soil moisture closely during hot summer months. While mature Black Gums can handle dry spells, young trees need steady moisture to thrive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,4,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,4,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003ePruning:\u003c\/b\u003e Requires very little structural maintenance. If needed, prune exclusively during the late winter dormant season to remove lower branches for clearance or clear away damaged wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"10,5,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"10,5,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eFertilization:\u003c\/b\u003e Prefers naturally acidic conditions. If your soil is neutral or poor, top-dress with an organic, acidifying fertilizer or compost in early spring to encourage steady growth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"ATM Gardens","offers":[{"title":"1-2ft","offer_id":51437171376423,"sku":"ST06B1","price":42.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"3-4ft","offer_id":51437171409191,"sku":"ST06B3","price":67.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"4-5ft","offer_id":51437171441959,"sku":"ST06B4","price":89.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"5-6ft","offer_id":51437171474727,"sku":"ST06B5","price":109.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0988\/9094\/0711\/files\/BLACKGUM11.webp?v=1779848768"}],"url":"https:\/\/atmgardens.com\/collections\/gum-trees.oembed","provider":"ATM Gardens","version":"1.0","type":"link"}