Habitat:
This slow to medium grower is found in swamp borders, mesic forests
and also on drier slopes. Although it tolerates relatively dry sites, this
species prefers deep, moist, well-drained, acid soils. It grows in full
sun or semi-shade and prefers shelter from wind. It has a long tap
root and is difficult to transplant. It also sends out suckers from the
roots.
Diseases: The black tupelo gum is often attacked by wood-decaying fungi and wood-boring insects, resulting in trees that are hollow, but continue to survive for many years. Cankers, leaf spots, Verticillium wilt, tupelo leaf miner and tupelo scale also attack trees, but are not a serious threat.
Distribution: This tupelo is an overstory or understory tree native to eastern North America from Ontario to Florida and Texas, but not naturally occurring in Iowa.
