Black Gum Tree Seeds

The Black Gum Tree (Nyssa sylvatica), also known as Black Tupelo or Sour Gum, is one of North America's most spectacular native shade trees. Renowned for its brilliant fall foliage, this long-lived species produces vibrant shades of scarlet, orange, yellow, and deep purple, often all on the same tree. During spring, it offers small nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators, while its dark blue fruits provide an important food source for birds and wildlife. Black Gum is highly adaptable, thriving in both moist lowlands and well-drained upland soils, making it an excellent choice for landscapes, parks, naturalized areas, and wildlife gardens.

Botanical Information

• Botanical Name: Nyssa sylvatica
• Common Names: Black Gum, Black Tupelo, Sour Gum, Pepperidge
• Plant Family: Nyssaceae
• Plant Type: Deciduous Tree
• Life Cycle: Perennial
• Native Range: Eastern and Central North America
• Mature Height: 30-80 feet
• Mature Spread: 20-30 feet
• Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4-9
• Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Partial Shade
• Soil Preference: Moist, fertile, well-drained soils; tolerates clay and acidic soils
• Soil pH: 4.5-6.5
• Water Requirements: Moderate to High
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate once established
• Salt Tolerance: Low
• Deer Resistance: Moderate
• Wildlife Value: Flowers attract bees; fruits are highly valued by songbirds, wild turkeys, foxes, and other wildlife
• Container Friendly: Suitable only while young before transplanting
• Landscape Uses: Shade tree, specimen tree, woodland gardens, wildlife habitat, parks, native landscapes, rain gardens
• Germination Rate: Approximately 60-80%
• Seed Pre-Treatment: Requires 60-90 days of cold moist stratification before sowing

Seed Quantities Available

• 1 oz. - Approximately 125 Seeds
• 1/4 lb. - Approximately 500 Seeds
• 1 lb. - Approximately 2,000 Seeds

Growing Instructions

Black Gum seeds require cold moist stratification to break dormancy. Place seeds in a moist growing medium and refrigerate for 60-90 days before planting. After stratification, sow seeds approximately 1/4 inch deep in a well-drained seed-starting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged and maintain temperatures between 65-75°F. Using a humidity dome during germination helps retain moisture. Germination is often gradual and may occur over several weeks.

Why Grow Black Gum Trees?

• Spectacular red, orange, yellow, and purple fall foliage
• Beautiful native shade tree with an elegant pyramidal form
• Excellent nectar source for bees and other pollinators
• Fruits provide food for numerous bird species and wildlife
• Long-lived and highly adaptable to many growing conditions
• Excellent choice for native landscaping and woodland gardens
• Tolerates wet soils better than many ornamental trees
• Outstanding specimen tree for residential and commercial landscapes