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Water Tupelo 100-120 cm (Nyssa aquatica)
Expected delivery date: 15 January to 22 January.
Applies to orders within Sweden. For other countries - see our delivery terms .
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1st Water Tupelo tree: 3 years old - current height 100-120 cm
Common Names: Water Tupelo, Cottongum, Wild Olive, Large Tupelo, Tupelo-Gum, Water-Gum
Scientific name: Nyssa aquatica
Family: Nyssaceae
Plant history & use:
Water Tupelo is a striking tree native to North America. The tree often grows in marshes, swamps and wetlands near rivers - especially along the Mississippi River and its surrounding regions. Water Tupelo has no problem growing in standing water. The tree usually forms a "swollen" base at the bottom of the tree trunk, then tapering upwards along the trunk. This classic "swamp tree look" somehow leaves a grand impression on the observer - perhaps the sheer size of the tree also plays a role. It is a sight to behold beyond the ordinary in our Nordic regions.
It still does not have an established Swedish name as it is a nearly non-existent plant in our regions, so we have chosen to let it keep its American name. The name Tupelo comes from a North American Indian language and is a combination of two words that mean "swamp/marsh" & "tree".
Forms edible dark purple fruits that ripen in autumn. The fruits can be eaten raw but are more often used to make jam. The fruits are about 4 cm long, have a sour pulp and a relatively large seed.
Water Tupelon, like the more familiar woodland Tupelon (Nyssa sylvatica), normally blooms in May, their inconspicuous flowers being very nectar-producing. Tupelo honey has a very rich flavor, and due to its high fructose content, it rarely crystallizes, making it one of the most popular North American honeys.
The small dark purple fruits also make the tree a popular food tree for birds. Interesting from an ecosystem perspective, if for some reason you need to attract birds to your forest garden or similar.
The wood from the roots is sometimes used to make floats instead of the more common wood from the Cork oak. The wood is also used for other carpentry and crafts.
The leaves are glossy and turn a beautiful yellow-orange in autumn.
Culture:
Best grown directly in the ground in a designated location, as the tree will become both very large and old.
Cold-resistant, can withstand temperatures down to -25ºC.
Does best in locations with full sun or light shade.
Tolerates poorly drained soils and can grow in standing water. Very resistant to flooding - reports state that the tree can survive up to 10 months when submerged to as much as ¾ of its height. This ability is possible thanks to the special structure of the tissue which can transport oxygen from the atmosphere to the airy cork-like roots.
Use a humus-rich soil when planting your Water Tupelo to give it a good start. Potting soil works well.
Often grows 15-25 meters tall and has a 6-15 meter wide crown in its natural environment. Water Tupelon often forms an even, dense, round crown.
Water Tupelos are long-lived trees and do not bear fruit until they are about 30 years old. However, once fruiting age is reached, the tree produces fruit in abundance.
Perfect for planting along the edge of a pond, lake or stream.
Features:
Year: Perennial
Growing position: sun / light shade
Height: 15-25 m
Growing zone: 1-4
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