Tupelo
Nyssa sylvaticafam. Cornaceae
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Pl. 95F6 — Nyssa sylvatica
Nyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvaticaNyssa sylvatica
IOverview
Overview
Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica), a deciduous tree in the family Cornaceae, is native to the eastern United States and parts of Mexico, thriving in states such as Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, and beyond. This tree can grow up to 15 meters in height and is well-suited to moist, light to medium soil with a pH range of 4.5–6, making it adaptable to various habitats. Tupelo prefers full sun to partial shade, and its growth form is characterized by a single stem, with a moderate growth rate. The tree is notable for its edible fruit, small berries that are enjoyed by both wildlife and humans, and can be eaten fresh or used in jams, jellies, and preserves. The fruit has a unique, sweet flavor, making it a delightful addition to culinary uses. Tupelo is a versatile and attractive tree for cultivation, suitable for landscapes and gardens. Hardy in zones 4-9, it is a valuable species for gardeners and horticulturists due to its adaptability and unique fruit.
Quick answers
What is Tupelo?
Tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica), a deciduous tree in the family Cornaceae, is native to the eastern United States and parts of Mexico, thriving in states such as Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, and beyond.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tupelo thrives in full to partial sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 4-9 and grows up to 15 meters tall. For propagation, use seeds or hardwood cuttings. Tupelo trees produce edible fruit and are native to regions including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, and surrounding areas.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Tree
Mature size
15.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–6
For first-time growers
How to grow Tupelo for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Tupelo tree and focus on basic care for the first year.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Tupelo sapling, well-draining soil, mulch, and watering can
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or fall when temperatures are mild
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy with a pH of 4.5–6; amend if necessary
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings from containers to a prepared garden bed
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged; mulch around the base
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade, regular watering, and occasional pruning for shape
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain tree structure; fruit is edible but not commonly harvested by beginners
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too heavy soil, neglecting mulch, and improper pruning
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The tupelo's fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, the fruit is enjoyed fresh but can also be made into jams, jellies, and preserves. The fruit has a unique, sweet flavor that makes it a delightful addition to culinary uses.
Other uses:Lumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
35 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
35 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 35 native
Asia1 region
native (1)Georgia
Broader regions
native:Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Masachusettes, Massachusetts, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Rhode I., South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Cornaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Cornaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 95f63405-d8f9-45d5-869d-befb3c2ffc76
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