Identification Black Gum Tree Leaves
Another common tree that is called a gum is sweetgum and is actually an entirely different tree species classification called liquidambar.
Identification black gum tree leaves. Black tupelo or nyssa sylvatica is the most common true gum in north america and grows from canada to texas. While it s mostly cosmetic it can make the tree more attractive to other pests and diseases. The leaves flutter easily in the slightest of breezes and form a rounded canopy. Black gum referring to the dark leaves.
Alternate simple pinnately veined obovate in shape with an entire margin 3 to 5 inches long. Prefers well drained acid soils and full sun to partial shade. Makes a strong specimen tree. Black gum summer leaves are a dark green with a high gloss appearance but the most spectacular part of this tree is the fall foliage with many shades of yellow orange bright red purple or scarlet that may appear on the same branch.
Blackgum is generally found with other hardwood species such as black cherry dogwood eastern hophornbeam and yaupon. The leaves of the black gum tree are an elongated oval shape that offer a brilliant fall show. A medium sized tree whose branches stand at right angles to the trunk. Not showy green white in color appearing with the leaves hanging in clusters.
Aged black gums begin decaying from the top so trees become shorter as they grow older. Black gum is susceptible to leaf spots caused by a fungus. Bark matures to medium gray and resembles alligator hide. While tupelo is derived from the creek indian name for the tree ito opilwa which means swamp tree.
The leaves flutter easily in the slightest of breezes and form a rounded canopy. A dark purplish blue drupe 1 2. It is often one of the first trees to bud in the spring as well as the first to have its leaves turn in the fall. Tupelo lesion happens when the fusarium solani fungus attacks resulting in the bark swelling up and becoming rough.
Raised leaf spots appear on the leaves and begin to discolor and drop off. Grows 30 50 high with a 20 30 spread. Fruit is bluish black and is loved by many birds. This tree is also sometimes called black tupelo.