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.

The range extends from Texas to North Carolina mostly in the coastal plan and adjacent areas of sandy hills.  In Florida, the range is continuous down to central Florida and then peters out, a pattern that largely corresponds to climate (temperature patterns).  This species should grow well from the central peninsula northward. Can be used as a specimen plant, hedge (can be trimmed), shelter plant, or wildlife thicket. Appreciated for its shiny dark foliage.