SCIENTIFIC NAME: Nyssa sylvatica 'WFH1'

COMMON NAME: Tupelo Tower Black Gum

GARDEN SIZE: 40 feet tall by 15 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 4 to 9

EXPOSURE: Full Sun

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

HABIT (FORM): Strongly columnar; upright with a tight, narrow crown and strong central leader

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; glossy dark green leaves turning scarlet, orange, and yellow in fall

FLOWERS: Inconspicuous; late spring to early summer

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 plantingsdisplay of yellow, orange, red, and purple. Exceptionally adaptable to wet or dry soils, it provides outstanding wildlife value.