Nyssa sylvatica
We carry this. Available at our St. Augustine nursery; call (904) 471-0440 to confirm current stock.
Wildfire Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica 'Wildfire') is a cultivated selection of the native tupelo, prized for its vivid red new spring foliage that matures to glossy dark green and delivers brilliant fall color in yellow, orange, and scarlet. Hardy in zone 9b, it thrives in NE Florida with consistent moisture and acidic soil, and its blue-black fall berries attract birds. Starting at $149.95.
Plant Wildfire Black Gum in full sun to partial shade. Full sun promotes the best fall color; afternoon shade in NE Florida's hottest months helps reduce heat stress, as zone 9b represents the southern edge of this species' comfort range.
Prefers consistently moist, slightly acidic soil; tolerates periodic wet conditions and compacted urban soils. Water regularly for the first 2-3 years to establish the deep root system; once established, supplemental irrigation during droughts keeps foliage healthy.
Performs best in moist, slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.5) sandy, loamy, or clay soils. Amend sandy NE Florida soils with organic matter at planting. Apply a slow-release acidifying fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-phosphorus formulas.
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, clay, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 5 of the same needs: similar light, moderate water, sandy, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
Shares 5 of the same needs: full sun, moderate water, clay, zone 9a hardiness, and pollinator-friendly.
TreeConocarpus erectus
TreeCoccoloba uvifera
Crataegus marshallii
Wildfire Black Gum is a tree for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 30-50 feet × 20-35 feet.
