Nyssa ogeche (Ogeechee Tupelo)

Nyssa ogeche (Ogeechee Tupelo) is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States. It belongs to the genus Nyssa, which includes several species commonly referred to as tupelos. Ogeechee Tupelo is a medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 30 to 50 feet (9 to 15 meters). It has a straight trunk and a narrow, pyramidal crown when young, which becomes more rounded with age.

Appearance: The bark is light gray and develops ridges and furrows over time. The leaves are alternate, simple, and elliptical in shape, with smooth edges. They have a glossy dark green color in summer and turn shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall.

Flowers and fruits: Ogeechee Tupelo produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are borne in clusters. The flowers are typically pollinated by insects. Female flowers give rise to fruits known as drupes, which are round and bluish-black when mature. The fruits are a food source for birds, including migrating songbirds.

Habitat and cultivation: Ogeechee Tupelo is native to wetland areas, including swamps, marshes, and floodplains, particularly in the coastal plain of the southeastern United States. It grows best in moist to wet soils with good drainage. In cultivation, it can be grown in gardens or landscapes with similar conditions, preferably in areas with high humidity.

Landscape use: Nyssa ogeche is valued as an ornamental tree for its attractive foliage, fall colors, and wildlife value. It can be planted as a specimen tree or used in naturalized landscapes. The tree's vibrant autumn foliage adds visual interest, and its tolerance for wet soils makes it suitable for rain gardens or near water features.

Culinary use: The fruits of Ogeechee Tupelo are highly valued for their sweet, flavorful pulp. They are sometimes used to make jellies, syrups, and desserts. Tupelo honey, produced by bees that gather nectar from the tree's flowers, is also highly regarded for its unique flavor and clarity.

Growing conditions: Nyssa ogeche is generally hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 9. It prefers full sun to partial shade and moist to wet soils. It can tolerate periods of flooding but does not tolerate drought well. Regular watering during dry spells is important, especially for young trees.