How to Grow and Care for Water tupelo

Water tupelo, also known as Tupelo-gum, Water-gum, Cottongum, Wild olive

Water tupelo thrive in wet, swampy conditions, making them unique among trees for their preference for standing water. The key to their care lies in maintaining consistently moist soil, which mimics their natural habitat. They require full sun to partial shade to flourish. Special care points include ensuring a substantial water supply to replicate their swamp-like needs and protecting them from prolonged dry spells, which they are not adapted to handle.

Watering schedule: Once per day

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

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Planting and Growing Water tupelo

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Once per day
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	6-6.5
Hardiness Zones	6-9

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More General Info About Water tupelo

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Water tupelo is distinguished by its pronounced, swollen base which provides support in its often-saturated habitat. With a typically straight and occasionally crooked trunk extending up to a narrow, open crown, this tree reveals spreading branches. Its glossy leaves are substantial in size, contributing to the species’ recognizability. Additionally, the plant displays large, pendant-like fruit and possesses slender, easily breakable twigs. The youthful shape of water tupelo may appear symmetrical and pyramid-like, though with maturity, it adopts a more irregular structure.