One of the toughest yet most attractive North American trees, the Black Gum, also known as Tupelo, is adored for its outstanding red fall foliage. It is tolerant of drought, heat, dry and wet soils, and thrives in full sun or part shade. It withstands wind, ice, and salt spray in coastal locations. 'Wildfire' is a glorious variety that not only produces red foliage in fall, but in spring as well. During the spring, new leaves emerge glossy red and mature to dark green. With the arrival of cooler temperatures in fall, the foliage turns to an outstanding, brilliant crimson. The leaves are long and pointed, similar to those of southern magnolia trees. With age, the trunk develops furrowed black bark, hence the name, which contrasts beautifully with the foliage colors. Edible bluish-black berries appear in late summer and fall and are often gobbled up by many species of birds and mammals. When planted in full sun, Wildfire Black Gum grows to a height of 40 to 50 feet over time, with a spread of 20 to 30 feet. In woodland settings, where it must reach for sunlight, it can grow taller. One of those trees that will always have you looking forward to both spring and fall for its glorious foliage show. 

Fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Produces a thin, sharply acidic pulp that is pleasant to roll in the mouth as a masticatory; it is also used in preserves. The honey that honeybees make from the flowers of this tree is highly prized.

Thrushes and other songbirds, wild turkeys, black bears, foxes, raccoons, and opossums from August through October enjoy the fruits (berries). It is one of the most important food sources for fall songbird migration. Though inconspicuous and not showy, the spring flowers are a nectar source for bees.

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