Black Tupelo
Nyssa sylvatica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, FL and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Black tupelo is a beautiful native shade tree known for its stunning fall color that ranges from yellow to orange to deep red. It grows slowly into a pyramidal shape when young, becoming more irregular with age, and produces small blue-black berries that birds love.
In an HOA neighborhood
Black Tupelo is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone, backyard only.
- Berry drop may stain pavement or sidewalks
Wildlife value
Host plant for tiger swallowtail, spring azure.
This tree supports over 30 species of moths and butterflies as a host plant, while its spring flowers attract bees and other pollinators. The berries are an important food source for birds including woodpeckers, thrushes, and wild turkeys.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Black Tupelo fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.