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Black Gum vs Medora Juniper
Nyssa sylvatica
Juniperus scopulorum Medora
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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.
Medora Juniper has an upright, narrow growth habit that makes it well suited as either an accent shrub or as a privacy hedge or screen. It is a compact, pyramidal evergreen shrub with blue-green foliage that lasts year round.
It is low maintenance, drought tolerant, and deer resistant. Medora Juniper is known for holding its form well without pruning. If pruning is desired it is best done in late winter after the threat of extreme cold has passed.