Dahurian Birch vs Black Gum - TreeTime.ca

Dahurian Birch vs Black Gum

Nyssa sylvatica

Betula davurica

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

CUSTOM GROW

Black Gum
Dahurian Birch

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.

Dahurian Birch is a rare and interesting ornamental with curling bark. This tree is the first to sprout on bare land and is tolerant of dry, gravelly, and infertile soils. Dahurian Birch can grow in industrial areas or exposed land as long as it has full sunlight.

This tree is ideal for landscaping, ornamental, and ecosystem services.

This tree is not well known, but is a favorite of nursery owners across the country.

Black Gum Quick Facts

Dahurian Birch Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 4a
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Height: 14 m (45 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Spread: 7 m (22 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: slow
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: medium
Suckering: low
Maintenance: medium


Fall colour: purple, orange, yellow, red
Bark: showy grey brown bark that exfoliates as it ages
Berries: dark blue
Flavor: sour
Harvest: september to october
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON
Other Names: black tupelo, pepperidge tree, sour gum, tupelo
Other Names: asian black birch