Nyssa aquatica, commonly known as Water Tupelo, is a deciduous tree native to the deep swamp forests and floodplains of the Southeastern United States. It is particularly adapted to wet conditions, often found along the edges of rivers, lakes, and in large, seasonally flooded basins. Water Tupelo can reach heights of 80-100 feet (24-30 meters) with a trunk diameter of 3-5 feet (0.9-1.5 meters). The tree is characterized by its swollen base, known as a buttress, which tapers into a long, straight bole. The bark is reddish-brown, deeply furrowed, and the leaves are simple, elliptical, and dark green, turning yellow in the fall. The small, greenish-white flowers are not particularly showy, but the tree produces oblong, purple fruits that are favored by wildlife and can be used to make a mildly flavored honey.

Water Tupelo is valued for its ability to thrive in wet conditions, making it an excellent choice for riparian plantings and restoration projects. It is also used as an ornamental tree for its unique form and the shade it provides. The wood is light and soft, making it useful for carving and for making containers that require buoyancy. In cultivation, it requires full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of soil drainage conditions, from standing water to moderately drained soils. While it is not commonly available in the nursery trade, it can be a rewarding tree for those who have the right conditions.CC BY-SA 4.0