Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo)

• Feature Tree
• Avenue Planting
• Shade Tree
• Street Tree

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) works in an:

• Formal Garden – structured, symmetrical design with clipped shapes.
• Modern Garden – sleek, minimal, and design-led planting.
• Woodland Garden – layered, naturalistic design under dappled light.
• Low-maintenance Garden – resilient choices for easy care and year-round appeal.

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) is an Deciduous (Defoliates throughout colder months) Tree

Mature Height: 10m - 20m Approximately

Mature Width: Up to 6m tall

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) is expected to grow Approx. 30 – 60 cm per year.

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) is expected to grow Approx. 30 – 60 cm per year.

They are considered to have a:

• Medium Growth Rate

Is Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) frost tolerant?

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) is Frost Hardy – Survives heavy and frequent frost without damage.

• Northern NSW (Byron, Coffs, Armidale)
• Sydney & Central Coast
• South Coast NSW (Illawarra to Bega)
• Inland NSW / Tablelands (Orange, Bathurst, Canberra)
• Melbourne & Surrounds (Metro, Bayside, Geelong, Bellarine, Mornington)
• Western District & Central VIC (Ballarat, Bendigo, Hamilton)
• Gippsland (Latrobe Valley, East Gippsland)
• Adelaide Metro & Coastal
• Adelaide Hills & Barossa

Nyssa sylvatica produces small clusters of greenish-yellow flowers in late spring. Although not showy, these nectar-bearing blooms support early-season pollinators and develop into small bluish-black fruits that ripen in late summer.

Does Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) flower?

• Yes - Flowers

Flowering Period:

• Spring

Flower Type:

• Not Applicable

Flower Colour:

White

No

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) is Native to Native to eastern North America, where it grows in woodlands, river valleys, and swamps. Known for its resilience and autumn brilliance.

Its nectar-rich flowers attract bees and beneficial insects, while the late-summer fruits are highly prized by birds. The dense, pyramidal canopy provides excellent nesting and shelter, making it one of the best deciduous trees for enhancing biodiversity in large gardens, parkland and naturalistic designs.

Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) will thrive best in:

• Full Sun

Nyssa sylvatica performs best in moist, well-drained loam or sandy loam soils and prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions. It may struggle in alkaline, compacted or very dry ground unless improved with organic matter to enhance moisture retention, aeration and structure. Keep soil evenly moist during establishment, then maintain deep, occasional watering as the tree matures to support steady growth, strong root development and its renowned vibrant autumn foliage.

Is Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo) Drought tolerant?

As a young tree it requires regular watering, and once established Black Tupelo offers moderate drought tolerance. It performs best in moist, well-drained soils and benefits from deep, occasional watering during dry periods to maintain strong growth, good leaf condition and its famous brilliant autumn colour.