| Description |
Nyssa ogeche is a fast growing and stunning small tree of the deep south. First discovered by William Bartram along the Ogeechee River in Georgia. Ogeechee-Lime is a lovely native tree which reaches 40 feet in height. It is pyramidal in shape when young with multiple, irregular branches emerging from a trunk covered with dark brown or grey, ridged bark. As the tree matures the base develops a swollen buttress and root foot print. Aborting the lower limbs developing a spreading, flat-topped crown also is a interest sculptural characteristic when mature. The four to six-inch-long, dark green leaves are joined in early spring by dense, hanging clusters of small, white blooms. The 1.5-inch-long, showy red fruits on female trees are produced in abundance and ripen in autumn. The juice can be used as a substitute for limes, hence its common name. Fruits can make a slight mess of a sidewalk, driveway or patio. The anticipation of Fall color will reward you as the trees put on a brilliant display of colorful foliage ranging from vivid yellow to deep purple, which would make Ogeechee-Lime a popular landscape choice. Unfortunately, it is sad that this wonderful small native tree is not more widely appreciated.
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