Nyssa sylvatica, also known as tupelo, black tupelo, blackgum, or sour gum, is a deciduous tree native to North America. Here's a breakdown of its characteristics and how to grow it: ### Description: - **Appearance**: Tupelo trees typically grow to be medium to large in size, reaching heights of 30 to 50 feet (9 to 15 meters) tall, although some specimens can grow taller. - **Leaves**: The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical, turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. - **Flowers**: In spring, the tree produces small greenish-white flowers that are not particularly showy. - **Fruit**: Female trees produce dark blue to black berries that are a favorite food source for birds. - **Bark**: The bark is dark and deeply furrowed, adding to the tree's visual interest, especially in winter. ### How to Grow: - **Climate**: Tupelo trees thrive in moist, acidic soils and are often found in swampy or wetland areas. They prefer full sun to partial shade. - **Propagation**: They can be grown from seeds, although it's essential to stratify the seeds before planting to break their dormancy. - **Care**: Once established, tupelo trees require minimal care. Regular watering, especially during dry periods, can help young trees establish themselves. - **Pests and Diseases**: While generally resistant to pests and diseases, tupelo trees may occasionally suffer from issues like leaf spot or powdery mildew. ### Common Names: - Tupelo - Black Tupelo - Blackgum - Sour Gum - Pepperidge - Bee Gum ### Things of Interest: - **Wildlife Value**: The fruits of the tupelo tree are a significant food source for various bird species, including wood ducks, wild turkeys, and songbirds. - **Landscaping**: Tupelo trees are valued for their stunning fall foliage and can be used as specimen trees in landscaping. - **Lumber**: The wood of tupelo trees is lightweight, making it suitable for applications like furniture, pallets, and crates. - **Honey Production**: Tupelo trees produce nectar that is highly prized by beekeepers for making tupelo honey, known for its unique flavor and slow crystallization. ### Bonsai Cultivation: Tupelo trees can be trained as bonsai, although they may require more attention compared to some other species commonly used for bonsai. Here are some considerations: - **Training**: Begin with young trees and gradually train them using bonsai techniques such as pruning, wiring, and root pruning. - **Soil**: Use a well-draining bonsai soil mix to prevent waterlogged roots, as tupelo trees prefer moist but not waterlogged conditions. - **Maintenance**: Regularly prune and shape the tree to maintain its desired size and form. Pay attention to its watering needs, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overall, while tupelo trees may require a bit more effort to cultivate as bonsai compared to some other species, their stunning foliage and unique bark make them an attractive choice for bonsai enthusiasts willing to put in the effort. This is a bonsai grown in a starter pot. Starter pot is 5" https://www.ebay.ca/usr/okiger- =s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s=- Note some outdoor Items may not be shipped until spring (March-April) if purchased during the months when the ground is frozen (Dec- March) This may vary at times depending on weather, snow cover and other conditions. s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s==s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=s=ss== Shipping of Seeds and Cuttings: Orders are shipped via Canada Post Mail unless otherwise specified. Some items are shipped without tracking to keep costs low. This is the most economical option. Canada Post is incredibly reliable, but can be slow. If you require tracking or a faster delivery please message before ordering. We try to ship any live plants on MONDAYS or TUESDAYS as a precautionary measure to avoid delays over the weekend and ensure the viability of live plant orders. Weather may be a contributing factor in the processing of our orders and will occasionally cause some delay. We will ship seeds anywhere in the world, however, please make sure you check with your country's customs office to be sure that they are allowed in. We will not be held responsible for orders held, confiscated and/or destroyed by customs. Please note this and make sure you understand before you buy it. If you have a question or if you are unclear about shipping policies please contact us. We welcome questions! Contact us before, after, or during any transaction and you will receive a reply ASAP. Thanks for visiting! Don't forget to bookmark us!