They are favorites of birds and rarely noticed by humans. Landscape use of these trees is limited by the difficulty of transplanting due to a pronounced tap root. The tree simply doesn't like to be disturbed. In the wild the black tupelo is usually a minor component of forest stands. Slow growth doom it to intermediate and understory positions where it gradually surcombs.
Forest disturbances allow a few stems to remain in the stand to achieve mature size and dominance.
The swamp tupelo on the other hand is usually a dominant component of young stands, then declines as other faster growing trees over take it. So, enjoy that early color that is a harbinger of glorious days ahead. Take notice and then visit the tupelo in its less distinctive times and come to appreciate its subtle wiles. For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Wesley Ford's Mid-Atlantic Plantsman topic, please visit the Discussions page . Used under License.