Nyssa sylvatica Zydeco Twist - Tupelo

Nyssa sylvatica 'Zydeco Twist' is a unique selection of Black gum or Tupelo that exhibits a zigzag, twisted branching, quite similar to that of the twisted willow. It is a deciduous tree whose foliage is adorned with sumptuous shades of reddish-orange in autumn. In winter, its unreal structure can be admired. With a modest stature, decorative throughout the year, this unique small tree is suitable for small gardens. It prefers slightly moist and lime-free soils. It will create a sensation near a natural pond.

Nyssa sylvatica belongs to the relatively unknown family of Nyssaceae, which only includes 5 genera, the most well-known being the dove tree. This tree is native to the eastern United States and is still relatively uncommon in our latitudes. While the Tupelo can reach a height of 35 metres (115 feet) in its country of origin, it will rarely exceed 20 metres (66 feet) in height here. Nevertheless, even though its growth is rather slow, its mature size makes it more suitable for parks than for our gardens.
The cultivar 'Zydeco Twist', with its slow growth, is well-suited to the size of our gardens. It forms a pyramidal tree that reaches a maximum height of 8 to 9 metres (26 to 29 feet) with a spread of about 6 metres (20 feet). Its trunk and main branches are twisted, while the twigs are spiralled. Its bark, beige when young, becomes very dark with time. The spring foliage is bright green, slightly smaller than the species. In autumn, the leaves turn a fiery reddish-orange before falling. In May-June, the tree produces small, inconspicuous white-green flowers. Nyssa trees are known to be dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are produced on separate plants.

Nyssa sylvatica 'Zydeco Twist' is very hardy, down to at least -29°C (-20.2°F), which means it can be grown in cold regions without any risk. Stunning as a standalone tree on a short grass meadow, this twisted small tree can also be integrated into a mixed border. To accompany it, choose, for example, trees or shrubs with yellow autumn foliage, such as Ginkgo biloba 'Blagon', to create strong contrasts. At the foreground, plant ferns like the beautiful Matteuccia orientalis, or Oriental Ostrich Fern, Iris kaempferi, Carex, Euphorbia palustris... Finally, consider placing it in a way that it can be seen from the house, allowing you to admire its unique silhouette from the warmth of a window.

Nyssa sylvatica is dedicated to Nyssa, a water nymph, as it requires consistently moist soil throughout the year to survive. Deer are extremely fond of leaves on seedlings and young plants, to the point that large populations of these cervids can make the establishment of the tree almost impossible.