Similar to the common Blackgum (N. sylvatica), but with much larger leaves, which have a few coarse teeth. Unlike Blackgum, Water Tupelo is found only in wetlands.

Greenville, NC 11/1/05.

Washington Co., NC 6/21/06.

The petioles are long and reddish.

Greenville, NC 11/1/05.

Ripening drupes. They turn purplish when ripe.

Clarendon Co., SC 6/14/07.

Washington Co., NC 6/21/06.

Fruit detail. The fruits are much larger than those of Blackgum, up to an inch long.

Washington Co., NC 6/21/06.

Bark of a medium-sized tree.

Washington Co., NC 6/21/06.

Bark of a larger tree. The bark is similar to that of Blackgum.

Greenville, NC 11/1/05.

Growing in standing water, the trunks form huge buttressed bases.

Greenville, NC 11/1/05.