Black Gum, Black Tupelo

Latin name: Nyssa sylvatica

Etymology: Nyssa sylvatica gets its name from its habitat. The genus name comes from ancient Greek Nyssa or Nysa and refers to a water nymph from Greek mythology while the species name is derived from the Latin word for ‘forest’ (sylva) and means ‘growing in the forest’.

Family: Nyssaceae (Tupelo sour gums)

Origin: Eastern North America and Mexico

Native habitats: Wetlands and upland areas among other hardwoods 

Black gum is widespread in Herrontown Woods, but less common than other tree species. It is most distinctive in fall, when its leaves turn a bright red, often just a few leaves at a time. 

Description: Black Gums grow 40-70 feet tall, with a diameter of 1-5 feet. Leaves are egg-shaped to elliptic, usually hairless, and shiny with an often somewhat leathery feel. They measure between 3-6 inches and turn brilliant colors of yellow, orange, purple, and scarlet in the fall. The bark is dark, deeply grooved and checkered. Branches are held more or less 90 degrees to the main stem with distinctly chambered pith. Flowers are non-showy, small, greenish-yellow, and occur in small clusters between May and June. Fruits are bluish-black, round to oval drupes that are clustered on stalks and can be found from August until October. 

Similar species: While the leaves and bark are similar to those of Persimmon, the pith of the latter is generally solid and not chambered. 

Wildlife value: The flowers are a good source of nectar for pollinators and fruits are eaten by a variety of birds. Black gums will frequently turn hollow when mature due to heart rot which makes them attractive homes for cavity nesting birds and mammals.

Uses: Native Americans used various parts of Black Gum to treat parasitic worms, diarrhea, pulmonary tuberculosis, and gunshot wounds. The inner bark was used to induce vomiting, while an infusion of bark was used during childbirth. 

Black Gum is a popular landscaping tree due to its fall color and honey from Tupelo species is sold commercially.  As its wood is very resistant to splitting, it is considered a premier wood for making railroad ties and factory flooring.