Nyssa sylvatica

Nyssa sylvatica or black tupelo is a beautifully-shaped shade tree with glossy, dark green leaves in the summer that turn brilliant shades of reds, oranges and yellows in the fall.  This native tree grows well in a wide variety of soils and moisture levels.  Black tupelo has male and female trees.  The small green blossoms are a good source of nectar for bees. Female trees produce a small, black oval fruit which is sour but edible, however, the fruit is attractive to birds. For more information, see the Missouri Botanical Garden website.