Nyssa sylvatica

One big tooth on some of the leaves. Branches at right angles.

Ranges from Texas to along the gulf coast south to Florida and north to Maine.

Swamps, low woods, and sandy open woodlands.

The wood of black tupelo is hard, moderately heavy, and low to moderate in decay resistance. It is classed as moderately weak when used in beams or posts. It is moderately limber and moderately high in ability to resist shock. The wood is difficult to dry because it has large shrinkage during seasoning, and a tendency to warp because of its interlocking grain. It requires special seasoning and drying before it can be successfully glued. It is below average in machining properties, but intermediate in nail-holding and resistance to splitting. It is used for lumber, veneer, and pulpwood, and to some extent for railway ties and slack cooperage. The lumber goes mostly into shipping containers and parts of furniture. The wood can be readily pulped, and is used for high grade book and magazine papers.