Nyssa sylvatica Tupelo Tower

Nyssa sylvatica ‘Tupelo Tower’ is a narrow, upright selection of black gum chosen for its strong vertical form and exceptional fall color. Unlike the broad habit of the native species, this cultivar grows in a tight column, making it suitable for smaller landscapes and urban settings. Glossy green leaves turn brilliant shades of scarlet, orange, and purple in autumn. It performs best in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, acidic, well-drained soil, with a moderate growth rate. Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9, it typically reaches 30–40 feet tall while remaining notably slender.