Highland Tupelo Tree (Nyssa sylvatica)

Highland Tupelo (Black Tupelo / Black Gum / Tupelo Honey Tree) Brilliant Fall Color • Wildlife Friendly • Native & Hardy USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9 The Highland Tupelo, also known as Blackgum or Sour Gum, is one of the most spectacular native shade trees for year-round beauty and exceptional fall color. Famous for its glossy green foliage that transforms into breathtaking shades of scarlet red, fiery orange, deep purple, and gold, this native tree creates a stunning seasonal display few trees can match. With a naturally attractive form, strong central trunk, and excellent wildlife value, Highland Tupelo is perfect for residential landscapes, native gardens, parks, pollinator habitats, and restoration projects. It is also known as the “Tupelo Honey Tree,” valued by beekeepers for its nectar-rich flowers that help produce prized tupelo honey. Why You'll Love Highland Tupelo ✔ Incredible Fall Color – Brilliant red, orange, and purple foliage creates a showstopping autumn display. ✔ Wildlife Friendly – Provides food and shelter for birds, pollinators, and beneficial wildlife. ✔ Strong & Long-Lived – Hardy native tree with excellent structure and durability. ✔ Adaptable & Low Maintenance – Thrives in a variety of soil types and landscape settings. ✔ Pollinator Support – Spring flowers provide nectar for bees, including tupelo honey production. Mature Size Height: 30–50+ feet tall Spread: 20–30 feet wide Sunlight Requirements Grows best in full sun to partial shade. More sunlight encourages denser growth and the richest fall color. Soil Requirements Adaptable to clay, loam, or sandy soils, but performs best in slightly acidic, moist, well-drained soil. Avoid highly alkaline soils. Watering Water deeply and consistently during the first growing season to establish strong roots. Once established, Highland Tupelo becomes moderately drought tolerant while still appreciating occasional deep watering during dry periods. Fertilizer Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (10-10-10 or 14-14-14) in early spring during the first few years. Mature trees typically require little supplemental feeding. Pruning & Care Minimal maintenance required. Light shaping while young encourages strong structure. Prune in late winter to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The Highland Tupelo is an outstanding choice for anyone wanting a native, wildlife-friendly shade tree with unforgettable fall color and long-term beauty. Whether planted in a formal landscape or natural setting, this resilient tree becomes more beautiful with every season.