deciduous tree
Blackgum: pruning, storm risk and removal
Nyssa sylvatica. Also called Black tupelo, Sour gum, Pepperidge.
Plain-English notes for homeowners, plus field notes for tree crews. General guidance only: for one specific tree, have a local insured pro look at it.
Blackgum at a glance
| Height | 30-60 ft |
|---|---|
| Spread | 20-30 ft |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| USDA zones | 4-9 |
| Lifespan | Typically 100-200 years, some live longer |
| Type | Deciduous |
| Native range | Eastern United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas and the Midwest, in moist lowlands and on dry uplands |
| Roots | A deep taproot when young, with spreading roots later. It is hard to transplant when larger, so buy small or container trees. |
| Wood | Hard and tough, with interlocked grain, so it is very hard to split. It is a poor choice for split firewood, but it dries and burns fine. It has been used for pallets and rough lumber. |
| Storm risk | lowThe wood is tough with interlocked grain, and the tree usually has a strong central trunk with horizontal branches. Old trees may develop hollow trunks, which weakens them. |
Typical ranges, not guarantees. Soil, water, space and care change how a tree grows. Storm risk is our general rating for the species, not an inspection.
For homeowners
Caring for a blackgum
Best time to prune
Late winter or in the dormant season. Blackgum needs little pruning. Remove dead or damaged branches and keep a single central leader on young trees.
Avoid pruning
Avoid heavy pruning, topping and large wounds, because the tree heals slowly. On young trees, keep most of the lower branches unless they block a walk or road.
More on timing: when to prune trees.
- Buy a small tree and plant it where you want it, since large blackgums do not transplant well.
- Give it moist, acidic, well-drained soil. High-pH soil can cause yellow leaves.
- Water young trees during dry spells and add a few inches of mulch, kept off the trunk.
- Plant one for fall color. The leaves often turn bright red or purple, and birds eat the small berries.
Safety first
Do not climb a tree or use a chainsaw on storm-loaded or broken wood. If a tree or limb is touching power lines, stay away and call the utility. If someone is in danger, call 911. For anything big, hire a local insured pro: read how to hire a tree service and is my tree dangerous?
Lirevon does not do tree work. Find local pros on Google Maps and read their reviews, then get two or three written quotes.
For tree crews
Field notes: working on blackgum
- 1Check older trunks for hollow sections and old cavities before putting weight on them.
- 2Interlocked grain makes splitting hard. Plan for chipping or hauling rather than selling it as firewood.
- 3Leaf spots and leafminer damage in summer are common and rarely serious.
- 4Plan stump grinding time, because dense roots take a while.
Removal notes
Wood with interlocked grain is hard to split and can twist and bind a saw. Old trees are often hollow, so check before climbing. Stumps can sprout, and the dense roots take time to grind. Expect heavy pieces.
Wood
Hard and tough, with interlocked grain, so it is very hard to split. It is a poor choice for split firewood, but it dries and burns fine. It has been used for pallets and rough lumber.
Pricing this job? Try the tree job estimator. Follow your own safety plan and crew training on every job.
Common problems for blackgum
Pests and diseases to watch for. Each link explains signs and what to do.
Trees often mistaken for it
Check the leaves, bark and shape before you decide how to prune or treat.
Where blackgum grows
Native range: Eastern United States, from Maine to Florida and west to Texas and the Midwest, in moist lowlands and on dry uplands
Common in these US regions. Tap one to see other trees there.
Free tools for this tree
They run in your browser and nothing is sent anywhere. Results are estimates.
Blackgum: common questions
Why is blackgum a popular fall color tree?
Its glossy leaves often turn bright scarlet, orange or purple in the fall. That is why it is a popular yard tree in the East.
Is blackgum hard to transplant?
Yes, especially larger trees. It forms a deep taproot, so small container trees usually establish more easily.
How fast does blackgum grow?
It grows slowly, often about 1 foot a year or less. In exchange it lives a long time.
Is blackgum good firewood?
It burns, but the interlocked grain makes it very hard to split by hand. Most people prefer other woods.
Are the berries safe to eat?
The small, dark blue fruit is sour and bitter, and birds and wildlife eat it. It is not a good snack for people. Do not let children eat wild berries, and ask your extension office if you are unsure.
When does a blackgum need to be removed?
Usually when it is dead, hollow with a lean, or a hazard to a home. A certified arborist can inspect it and give written advice. Get two or three written quotes.
More trees in the same regions
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