Life History and Disturbance Response of Nyssa ogeche (Ogechee Tupelo)

Family: Cornaceae
Guild: opportunistic, dispersal limited
Functional Lifeform: small deciduous tree or shrub
Ecological Role: A rare tree found on very moist sites that are often inundated, such as the borders of rivers, swamps and ponds. It is a minor component of the Bald Cypress-Tupelo and Water Tupelo-Swamp Tupelo forest types. The fruit and juice is used by people and it is an important honey tree.
Lifespan, yrs (typical/max): unknown
Shade Tolerance: intolerant
Height, m: 7-15m
Canopy Tree: yes
Pollination Agent: insects
Seeding, yrs (begins/optimal/declines): 3yr/?/?
Mast Frequency, yrs: seeds and sprouts
Flowering Dates: spring
Flowers/Cones Damaged by Frost: yes
Seedfall Begins: late summer-late fall
Seed Banking: yes
Seed Type/Dispersal Distance/Agent: large drupe/50m/gravity, water
Season of Germination: spring
Seedling Rooting System: much reproduction occurs from root crown or stump sprouts

Establishment Seedbed Preferences
Substrate: moist to wet
Temperature: neutral

Disturbance Response
Fire:
Exotics: