Black Tupelo
NameBlack Tupelo
Scientific NameNyssa sylvatica
Common NamesBlack Tupelo, Blackgum, Sour Gum, Pepperidge
Plant FamilyNyssaceae
Natural HabitatNative to eastern North America, Black Tupelo thrives in a variety of moist to wet habitats, including swamps, stream banks, and low-lying woods, but can also tolerate drier upland sites. It is often found in mixed deciduous forests.
Parts Usedfruit,bark
Medicinal Actionsantioxidant,astringent
Traditional UsesThe fruit of Black Tupelo is edible and serves as an important food source for wildlife and, to a lesser extent, humans. Historically, some indigenous groups utilized the bark for its astringent properties, though it is not a primary medicinal plant in modern herbalism. Its flowers are highly valued by beekeepers for producing tupelo honey.
Active ConstituentsFlavonoids, Tannins
Preparation Methodsinfusion,decoction
Contraindications & WarningsNone widely documented due to its limited traditional medicinal use. The fruit is generally considered safe for consumption.
Cultivation NotesBlack Tupelo prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It is a slow to moderately growing tree, valued for its ornamental beauty, especially its spectacular fall foliage and wildlife-attracting fruit.
Raritycommon
Description
Black Tupelo is a medium to large deciduous tree characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves that transform into brilliant shades of red, orange, and purple in autumn. It produces small, inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers in spring, followed by dark blue, berry-like drupes in late summer.
