Hi tree folks!
I'd love to hear your experiences with Nyssa sylvatica (black gum, tupelo). A few questions I have are below, but I'd welcome any comments you have about the tree and particularly it's use in a home landscape. I know it is a good honeybee tree and birds like the fruit. And I know it prefers moist, acid soils. I like the shiny leaves and fall color and the wavy branches.
1. Do squirrels feed on the fruit?
2. Is it possible to identify male vs female trees at a young age (i.e. how soon do the trees bear fruit?)
3. I've read the fruit is "messy." What is your experience?
4. Have you noticed much feeding by Japanese beetles?
5. What cultivars do you have and are they fruitless? Other observations or problems?
Thank you! Looking forward to your comments!
