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Horse Chestnut vs Black Gum
Nyssa sylvatica
Aesculus hippocastanum
ONLY AVAILABLE BY CONTRACT GROW
Black Gum is a slow-growing ornamental shade tree with a dense pyramidal shape. The foliage is dark green in the summer, and transitions to bright fall colours which include red, orange, purple, and gold. It is commonly used as an ornamental tree in parks and large gardens as a specimen or shade tree.
The small greenish white flowers provide nectar for bees and black tupelo honey is a sought after flavour. The small dark blue fruits which ripen in late summer will attract birds and other animals to your yard. The fruits are edible, but very sour, and are primarily used for pies, flavouring, and drinks. Plant the Black Gum where it will live long-term, as it has a large taproot and does not transplant well.
Horse Chestnut is a medium sized deciduous tree that is native to Greece but has been grown in North America for hundreds of years. It produces large nuts.
A top CO2 absorbing species. Experts think this tree may help climate change more than others.
Black Gum Quick Facts
Horse Chestnut Quick Facts
Toxicity: most parts of plant are toxic