SCIENTIFIC NAME: Nyssa sylvatica 'The James', PP29473

COMMON NAME: Forest Fire™ Black Gum

GARDEN SIZE: 50 feet tall by 25 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Slow

USDA ZONE: 5 to 9

EXPOSURE: Full Sun

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

HABIT (FORM): Upright; strong branching

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; glossy medium green turning brilliant fiery red in fall

FLOWERS: Inconspicuous; 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