Wildfire Black Gum Tree
Nyssa sylvatica 'Wildfire'View more from Other Shade Trees
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Botanical Name
Nyssa sylvatica 'Wildfire'
Outdoor Growing zone
4-9
Mature Height
40-60
Mature Width
25-30
Sun needs
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Experience the extraordinary allure of the Wildfire Black Gum Tree, a personal favorite celebrated for its captivating display of colors across the seasons. Admire the brilliant reddish-pink growth that graces the tree in spring, creating a striking contrast against lush greens. As summer unfolds, the leaves transition to a deeper green with subtle hints of red, offering enduring visual allure. In the fall, the Wildfire lives up to its name, showcasing a breathtaking blend of crimson, orange, and purple leaves that evoke the nostalgic hues of autumn. Standing at a majestic height of 50 feet, with a spread of 30 feet, this remarkable tree commands attention while seamlessly adapting to diverse conditions, from cold mountains to hot southern swamps. Thriving in hardiness zones 4 to 9, its manageable size and roots that won’t disrupt your property make the Wildfire Black Gum a resilient and visually arresting addition to your outdoor haven, exclusively available at The Tree Center.
For optimal growth, the Wildfire Black Gum Tree thrives in a location with full sun to partial shade. Plant it in well-drained, moist, and rich acidic soils with a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. Regular watering is essential, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. While the tree can tolerate occasional wet conditions, it should not be exposed to standing water. Pruning is generally low maintenance, with the best time for any necessary trimming being late winter. This impressive tree will reward your efforts with its stunning foliage and vibrant colors throughout the seasons.
The Wildfire Black Gum Tree is renowned for its striking size and captivating appearance. This deciduous tree reaches a mature height of approximately 50 feet, with a spread of 30 feet, showcasing a strong central leader and a distinctive pyramidal form. Its average texture seamlessly blends into the landscape, offering a balanced yet impactful presence. The tree’s growth rate is slow, allowing for the development of a sturdy and well-structured canopy. In spring, the Wildfire Black Gum makes its grand entrance with red-hued foliage, transitioning to a deep green during summer. As autumn arrives, the leaves undergo a mesmerizing transformation, displaying a brilliant array of crimson, orange, and purple hues. The tree’s bark, initially smooth and cherry-like on younger specimens, develops a rougher texture with age, adding an interesting dimension to its aesthetic appeal. With its exceptional size and multi-seasonal beauty, the Wildfire Black Gum Tree becomes a standout choice for those seeking an impressive and resilient addition to their landscape.
The Wildfire Black Gum Tree showcases remarkable hardiness, with a robust tolerance for a range of conditions. Ideal for zones 4 to 9, this tree thrives across diverse climates, showcasing its adaptability and resilience in various regions.
Thriving in full sun to partial shade, the Wildfire Black Gum Tree exhibits versatility in its sun exposure preferences. This adaptable tree is well-suited for a variety of soil conditions, provided they are rich and acidic, ensuring optimal growth and performance. With its ability to tolerate a wide range of sun exposure and soil types, the Wildfire Black Gum Tree makes an excellent addition to gardens seeking a visually stunning and resilient specimen.
Low-maintenance and easy to care for, the Wildfire Black Gum Tree requires minimal pruning for optimal health and aesthetic appeal. Pruning is typically done in late winter, once the threat of extreme cold has passed, to maintain its natural form and shape. With its slow growth rate, this tree maintains a neat and pyramidal structure, reducing the need for extensive maintenance while providing stunning multi-season interest.
The Wildfire Black Gum Tree, also known as Nyssa sylvatica ‘Wildfire,’ is a cultivar of the native Black Gum or Tupelo tree, Nyssa sylvatica. Originating from the wetlands and bottomlands of eastern North America, this deciduous tree has been a part of the region’s natural landscape for centuries. The Wildfire cultivar specifically showcases the enduring appeal of the Black Gum, with its rich history rooted in the diverse ecosystems of the American East, where it has thrived and adapted over time. It was found by Steve Hotevey of Beyond Green Nursery in Dayton, Oregon, probably as a seedling. We don’t know for sure, but he perhaps introduced it around 15 years ago. Today, this cultivated variety stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of this remarkable native species, celebrated for its vibrant foliage and versatile adaptability in various climates.
Elevate your landscape with the exceptional beauty of the Wildfire Black Gum Tree, available exclusively from The Tree Center. Renowned for its striking red foliage in spring and brilliant autumnal colors, this cultivar of the native Black Gum promises a vibrant display throughout the seasons. With our commitment to quality, we ensure that your Wildfire Black Gum arrives healthy and ready to thrive, representing a unique addition to your garden that combines historical roots with contemporary appeal.