Nyssa sylvatica is a beautiful shade tree native in all but the coldest parts of the eastern United States. Common names include sourgum, black tupelo, black gum, and pepperidge. Sourgum has large, glossy, alternating, ovate leaves, broader towards the tip. In autumn, the foliage reliably becomes a brilliant scarlet-red. The tiny yellow-green flowers become dark blue-black berries. These are unpalatable to humans, but relished by birds and bears. Its cousin Nyssa aquatica is found in wetter habitats with a more restricted southerly range. The trees require moist, rich soils and tend to struggle in the clay soils of the Chicago area.