Bee Tupelo Tree Seeds | Ogeechee Lime | Sour Tupelo | (Nyssa ogeche)
Bee Tupelo Tree Seeds | Ogeechee Lime | Sour Tupelo | (Nyssa ogeche)
Legendary honey tree, wetland adapted strength, and unmatched pollinator value.
Nyssa ogeche, commonly known as Bee Tupelo or Ogeechee Tupelo, is a rare native tree best known as the primary nectar source for the famous Tupelo honey of the southeastern United States. Native to river bottoms, floodplains, and swampy lowlands of the Southeast, this species thrives where few other trees can.
Bee Tupelo is a keystone species for pollinators, especially honeybees, producing abundant spring flowers that yield light colored, highly prized honey that never crystallizes. It also produces sour, lime like fruits that were historically used by Indigenous peoples and early settlers for preserves and beverages.
Why Grow Bee Tupelo?
- Primary nectar source for prized Tupelo honey
- Exceptional pollinator support tree
- Thrives in wet soils and flood prone sites
- Rare and regionally significant native species
- Excellent choice for riparian restoration and rewilding
Growing Details
- Botanical Name: Nyssa ogeche
- Common Names: Bee Tupelo, Ogeechee Lime, Ogeechee Tupelo, Sour Tupelo, White Tupelo
- Germination Rate: 65%
- Harvest Year: 2024
- Seed Source: Southeastern USA
- Stratification: Cold moist stratification required
- USDA Zones: 7 to 10
- Soil: Moist to wet soils, tolerates flooding
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Mature Size: 30 to 50 ft tall x 20 to 30 ft wide
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Packet Sizes: 5, 10, 25, 50, or 100 seeds
Ecological Importance
- Critical nectar source for honeybees and native pollinators.
- Supports wetland ecosystems and riparian stability.
- Fruits provide food for birds and wildlife.
Fun Facts
- Tupelo honey is famous for its light color and resistance to crystallization.
- The fruit has a naturally sour flavor similar to citrus.
- Bee Tupelo trees often grow partially submerged during seasonal flooding.
Evergreen Seed Co. delivers premium, high germination native tree seeds for growers focused on pollinator support, habitat restoration, and long term ecological resilience. Each order includes detailed germination instructions and seed handling guidance so you can plant with confidence.
FAQ
FAQ
Do you pre-stratify the seeds?
Most of our seeds are not pre-stratified. We ship them unstratified so you can control germination timing based on your local growing season. We sell to all 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and since each region has different planting windows, pre-stratifying would risk seeds germinating in transit or before you're ready to plant.
True stratification requires cold, moist conditions, which can lead to premature sprouting or mold if not timed properly. To avoid this, we store most seeds in dry cold conditions to preserve viability — but this does not initiate stratification.
Do any of your seeds need to stay moist? (Recalcitrant seeds)
Yes — some species we offer are recalcitrant, meaning they must remain moist to stay viable and cannot be dried out. Examples include: Chestnut, Hazelnut, Paw Paw, etc.
These seeds are shipped in moist cold storage and are clearly labeled on the product page when applicable. Please refrigerate immediately upon arrival and follow included care instructions.
Do you ship internationally?
We currently ship to the United States and Canada only. Unfortunately, we cannot ship to other countries without a phytosanitary certificate, which is required by most international customs agencies.
If you're interested in shipping outside North America, please contact us. Note that a phytosanitary certificate typically adds $60–$80 USD per seed type and must be arranged in advance.
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & What's Included
Shipping & Packaging
Hand-packed in resealable zipper kraft paper seed bags
Stratification and planting instructions included with every order
1 free bonus seed pack included with every order
Ships within 3–5 business days via USPS
Return Policy
Return Policy
Due to the nature of our products, we do not accept returns on seeds.
However, if your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 7 days and we’ll make it right.
