Black Gum 5 Tree Seeds - Nyssa sylvatica (Black Tupelo / Sourgum) Ontario Native Tree

Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica), also known as Black Tupelo or Sourgum, is one of Ontario's most striking native trees — prized for its brilliant scarlet fall foliage and exceptional wildlife value.

A small to medium tree reaching up to 20 metres, Black Gum thrives in a range of conditions and makes an outstanding landscape specimen. Its flowers attract bees and beneficial insects in spring, while its small blue-black fruits are a vital late-season food source for foxes, woodpeckers, wild turkeys, and other wildlife. White-tailed deer and beavers also browse its twigs and leaves.

The fruits are too sour for human consumption — hence the common name "Sourgum" — but they're irresistible to birds and mammals preparing for winter.

Why Grow Black Gum?

• Spectacular crimson-red fall colour — one of the first trees to turn in autumn
• Supports bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects
• Critical food source for birds and mammals
• Excellent shade tree for naturalized or formal landscapes
• Ontario native — adapted to local soils and climate

Growing Notes

• Seeds require cold stratification (60–90 days) before sowing
• Best started indoors in late winter or direct sown in fall
• Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Full sun to partial shade
• Hardy in USDA zones 4–9 / Canadian hardiness zones 4–8

Each packet contains 5 seeds. Sourced and grown in Ontario, Canada.