Sensation Lilac vs Black Gum - TreeTime.ca

Sensation Lilac vs Black Gum

Syringa vulgaris Sensation

Nyssa sylvatica

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Sensation Lilac
Black Gum

Sensation Lilac is an outstanding shrub known for its fragrant, bicolor flowers. In mid-spring, stunning purple flowers with white borders emerge and cover the entire plant.

Once the flowers bloom, they give off a beautifully sweet scent that is enjoyed by people, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other wildlife. Plant Sensation Lilac in full sun to produce the most vibrant flower color.

Staff Favorite!

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.

Sensation Lilac Quick Facts

Black Gum Quick Facts

Zone: 3a
Zone: 3a
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Height: 12 m (40 ft)
Spread: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Spread: 8 m (25 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: slow
Life span: short
Life span: long
Suckering: high
Suckering: medium
Maintenance: medium


Fall colour: purple, orange, yellow, red
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