05/29/2026
Nyssa sylvatica has many common names: Black Tupelo, Black Gum, Sour Gum, and Pepperidge, but on Island, most know it as Beetleb**g. This unique name refers back to a time when people were making barrels out of local trees, specifically to transport whale oil. The Beetleb**g tree has exceptionally hard and heavy wood suitable for making tools like mallets. Mallets were referred to as "beetles", and those "beetles" would hammer a stopper known as a "b**g".
Across the Island, this tree likes to grow in wet areas or clay pockets. In the fall there is a brilliant display of scarlet, crimson, and violet foliage followed by bluish-black berries that wildlife depend on. Migrating birds visit colonies of Nyssa sylvatica to feast before flying away for the winter.
This picture shows the row of Beetleb**gs on PHA's campus on a beautiful August evening. Beetleb**gs can be found at PHA along the West Field.
