Black Gum Firestarter #20

Firestarter Black Gum is primarily valued in the landscape for its decidedly oval form. It has forest green deciduous foliage. The glossy pointy leaves turn an outstanding scarlet in the fall. It produces black berries in early fall. The furrowed black bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

It is a deciduous tree with a strong central leader and a shapely oval form. Its average texture blends into the landscape, but can be balanced by one or two finer or coarser trees or shrubs for an effective composition. This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and is best pruned in late winter once the threat of extreme cold has passed. It is a good choice for attracting birds to your yard.