Variegated Black Tupelo
Nyssa sylvatica ‘Sheri’s Cloud’
Oh, Sheri! We think even legendary crooner Steve Perry would sing the praises of this beauty. The leaves of this spectacular and rare selection boast unusual gray-green centers that bleed into creamy white margins. A moderately sized specimen smolders in the landscape with a subtle intensity, but a mature tree is downright radiant. Like all tupelos, it’s adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions from average to moist soil and part to full sun. In the fall, expect the exquisite, variegated foliage to transition to the soft pinks, yellows, and oranges of the season. Take note that this is a sloooow grower that may attain 12′ in height by 10 years.
Conditions: Part sun to full sun; wet, moist, and average soil
Size: 25″ – 50″ tall; 5″ – 30″ wide
Zone: 4 – 9
Wildlife Value: Host for over 30 species of butterflies and moths, the fruit is consumed by numerous bird and mammal species, native bees, and non-native honeybees. Older trees often develop cavities used by owls, racoons, and other animals
