Its more upland relative, Nyssa sylvatica, grows well in sandy uplands and is highly similar in appearance. Somewhat slow growing. Grows naturally in swamps and best planted in moist areas. For moist settings, it is appropriate both as a shade tree and as a fall-color specimen tree in those parts of the state that get good fall cooling.

Most plants sold as P. obtusifolia are from tropical American stock; local sources are recommended both to protect the genome and to enhance your likelihood of success. It is listed as Endangered by the state of Florida. Groundcover.