Forest Fire™ Black Gum

Common Names

Blackgum
The James

Scientific Names

Nyssa sylvatica 'The James' PP29473
Cornaceae (Dogwood) family

Basic Landscape Attributes

Height Range:

45-50 ft. height

Fall Colors:

Glossy green foliage, Fiery red in fall

Width Range:

20-25 ft. spread

Flower Type:

Small, non-showy, greenish-white flowers

Shape:

Moderate growth rate

History of
the Tree Species

Patent filed in 2016 by James A. Hines, III under the title "The James"
A distinct cultivar of the Nyssa sylvatica ‘Wildfire’ tree characterized by its broadly ovate form, vigorous growth, and freely branching habit with numerous lateral branches

Basic Growing Conditions

Full to partial
Adapts to most soil types
Prefers average, moist, well-drained soil

Scientific Facts

Bears dark blue, oval fruit that is edible but sour (birds enjoy them)
Black gum commonly used for concealed parts in furniture, veneer for containers, plywood, pulp, railroad ties, and lumber for boxes, crates, pallets
Black gum trees are favored by honey producers for creating a light and mild-tasting honey
Black gum bark is emetic, ophthalmic, and vermifuge -- an infusion has been used as a bath and also given to children with worms
A strong decoction is used to cause vomiting when unable to retain food
A strong ooze from the roots is used as eye drops

Location on tree on Shelby Ave:

The Shelby Avenue Arboretum is a community-grown project led by Nashville Tree Conservation Corps and is in partnership with NTCC and Metro Nashville.