- Name
- Black Gum
- Common Names
- Sourgum, black tupelo
- Scientific Name
- Nyssa sylvatica
- Family
- Cornaceae (Dogwood Family)
- Description
- A medium- to large-sized tree, frequently 60 to 80 ft high and 3 to 4 ft in diameter; it typically has dense foliage with a conical crown on a straight trunk. Stunning fall color in many shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple; bark furrows with age, resembling alligator hide. Important early spring food source for bees, birds, and other wildlife
- Leaves
- Simple, alternate leaves are leathery, glossy, and densely clustered at the branchlets.
- Flowers
- Small, light greenish white flowers mature in clusters.
- Bloom Time
- Late April to mid-May
- Pollen Source
- ?
- Nectar Source
- good
- Pollen Color
- yellow
- Native to NC
- Yes
