Nyssa sylvatica ‘Wildfire’
by MaryAnn Fink
Conservation Specialist
copyright 2010
He is the offspring of Missouri’s native Nyssa (Black gum) which has a rich heritage of a persistent population on both Missouri’s dry rocky slopes and the southern lowlands.
This natural population demonstrates the versatility needed to thrive in Missouri’s ever changing seasons, but this new cultivar also has fall color that rival the intensity of any Maple. Finnally a tree that has both native endurance and the main stream public’s desire for ornamental attributes!
This cultivar / selection is quite adaptable to the wide range of soil types typically encountered in urban situations including clay, inconsistent moisture levels and poor drainage- this make him a good choice for the average yardener. He is also likely to catch the trained designer's eye of landscape architects who demand picture pretty options. Even municipalities struggling for more "storm water friendly" choices will like his ability to “fit the bill” as a thriving filter option for long term use! (Can you say “rain gardens”?)
Although this cultivar is new to the market, it appears that N. ‘Wildfire already has his fan club! Those who love unique foliage coloration will think this handsome offspring of “Nyssa-The King of Color” will appreciate his "bonus feature": his new growth is notably red-tipped. Eventually as the growth matures it turns a wonderful shade of forest green)
Growers are already giving him rave reviews. I suppose it is only a matter of time before he will run the risk of being over planted by tree connoisseurs who have finally found the perfect tree! I admit he looks to be “the answer” for difficult sites that “must have” multi-seasonal attributes. He doesn't need pruning so he is also likely to be on the top of the list for the energy conscious as well!
He is predicted to have a tamer habit and somewhat smaller build than his wild relatives. This makes him acceptable for the smaller spaces where the common species might be crowed.
Size and growth factors do vary in climates and growing conditions. At this early point in his career, he is anticipated to have at least a slow to moderate growth rate, with the potential of reaching 20-30’ feet in 10 to 15 years. His estimated mature size seem to vary considerably depending on information sources but expect a spread less than half his height in perfect situations. His profile is frequently compared to being similar to pin oak. His lowest limbs may eventually need to be removed for street clearance, depending on the tree and the site situation.
N. ‘Wildfire’ certainly has a flair for color but he also has his parent’s straight upright form so he can play the role of a featured specimen in a formal setting or be used in casual landscape. He is actually so good looking, that he perfect whenever more is better!He is also the “new option” for edging the transition zone into an existing tree community. Consider planting your own woodland sanctuary with him as a main component. He is as truly as handsome as he is versatile!
He does produce rather small, greenish-white flowers that most consider " insignificant." Both male and female flowers are present on the same tree but only the female blossoms become nectar-packed energy drinks for our important beneficial pollinators. If ideal Midwest weather occurs, these modest little flowers are replaced by small persistent energy snack fruits that are attractive to song birds. This makes him perfect for both urban situations , municipal park use and habitat freindly green spaces.
Care Factor Rating: 1 He must be watered regularly till established. He has a naturally straight trunk that supports well balanced, well spaced and angled branching so minimal pruning if any is needed! Remove only the occasional damaged or dead branch) N. 'Wildfire' also appears to be less susceptible to leaf spot.
image curtesty of Missouri Botanical Garden
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