Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Tree of the Month...

Nyssa sylvatica

It is May, and it is the busy season for us gardeners and those of us in the green industry. Flowers are being planted, trees being replaced, a new parking lot being installed, weeds on steroids, and so on!

So I would like to take this moment to discuss another less common tree, that should be more common! The Blackgum, or Nyssa sylvatica, is very underutilized in Missouri. It is in fact a native and is beautiful!

Blackgum is a very slow growing tree, but can get rather large, upwards to fifty feet tall and fifty feet wide, so it needs plenty of space and shouldn't be planted under power lines. It seems this tree prefers a moist location, but will thrive in full sun and heavy shade, and is very adaptable.

Disease and insects do not seem to be a large problem with this tree as of now. In fact, it seems to be one of my favorite performers, as it tolerates neglect well, and gardeners love plants that are low maintenance and can withstand some neglect in our hectic lives. I often worry about some trees, but this one is never on the worry list.

Nyssa sylvatica's Beautiful Fall Glow...

The flowers and fruit of this tree are insignificant, but birds love this tree, and let me tell you, the fall color is as beautiful as they get. Usually a deep red, but often it includes some beautiful orange tones and some yellow tinge. This tree will not disappoint in the fall!

Finding this tree for sale can be a burden, how ironic some of Missouri's best native species are so hard to find for purchase. If you are lucky enough to find this tree, and can give it a home, it will bring you and many other generations a healthy shade tree that will never fail to offer beauty in your landscape! Have a great spring!

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