March's Tree of the Month is the Black Tupelo, Nyssa sylvatica, a native tree known for its unique bark and amazing fall colors. The black tupelo tree can reach heights of up to 60 feet tall and naturally has a pyramidal shape needing little structural pruning. It can be found in native wetland/ mixed hardwoods areas around Jacksonville and can be identified by the purple leaf spot that is common on mature species. The black tupelo is an important wildlife tree, utilized by many birds and pollinators. By the name, tupelo tree flowers are favorites to honey bees and many honeys are made from bees that utilize this flower. The City of Jacksonville has been planting some trees in parks around town and have been a great way to diversity our urban forests.