As the heat of summer begins to loosen its grip and we look forward to more comfortable fall temperatures, we start to see changes in the landscape, in preparation for winter. Fortunately, before winter sinks in we get to experience the brilliant colors of fall. One tree that is rarely used, yet displays brilliant fall color is the black gum.

Black gum, Nyssa sylvatica, does not always stand out during the spring and summer months, but appears to come to life once autumn arrives. As the dark green, oval-shaped leaves of the black gum begin to change, these 2-6 inch leaves exhibit an array of colors –yellow, orange, purple, and most often dark red or scarlet. This straight-trunked tree can grow to a mature height of about 50 feet tall, and it grows best when planted in full sun. Although fall is black gum’s showiest season, during spring the small, greenish-white flowers are a treat for bees. The black gum generally has a medium growth rate, but when grown in its preferred wet conditions or with regular watering, its growth rate may accelerate.