Sourgum & Cultivars

In general terms, this eastern North American native tree tolerates wet conditions but does not require wet ground. It appears to tolerate drought but thrives in moist well-draining soils. Leaves tend to be glossy, smooth edge, ovoid, 2 to 3 times longer than wide on flexible limbs and twigs. Leaf spot disease is the only concern I have heard of for this tree and from my experience, likely only occurs in limited locations. These characteristics describe the perfect urban street tree.

The new cultivars now provide us with more desirable and reliable growth habit. And their fall color can be “stop in your tracks, knock your socks off, spectacular”! A current favorite in Afterburner® appropriately named of course. Summer leaf color is the richest of greens and fire engine red in the fall. But it appears that all of the cultivars have excellent fall color and the narrowest cultivar is the Tupelo Tower™.

Nyssa are know to be deep rooted with limited fibrous roots and are said to be difficult to transplant. That is not our experience, but try to find B & B trees that have been transplanted more than once. Container or root-bag trees may also be easier to transplant. Once established, they become near bullet proof trees. Their deep roots may also result in less infrastructure damage as long as deeper soils are available. Put a down payment on what you want early because these will all be hot and hard to find trees!