SCIENTIFIC NAME: Nyssa sylvatica 'NSMTF'

COMMON NAME: Red Splyndor™ Black Gum

GARDEN SIZE: 50 to 60 feet tall by 35 to 40 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate to Fast

USDA ZONE: 4 to 8

EXPOSURE: Full Sun

WATER & SOIL: Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils; tolerates occasional drought once established

HABIT (FORM): Pyramidal when young, maturing to a broad, rounded crown; strong central leader

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; vivid red spring foliage turning deep green in summer, then brilliant red, orange, and purple in fall

FLOWERS: Inconspicuous, white; spring

PLANT ORIGIN: Eastern United States, including Davidson County

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Host plant for local butterflies and moths, and food source for pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Supplies shelter and nesting sites.

FERTILIZING: Apply organic compost or a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring if needed

PRUNING: Minimal; prune in late winter while dormant to maintain structure and remove dead or crossing branches

TOXICITY FLAGS: None known

USES: Specimen tree, native plantings