Widespread but sparse distribution in Florida largely based on where limestone is exposed at the surface.  If you have limestone it is appropriate to plant it even if the location is not shown on the map. Small specimen plant or groundcover. Also grows well as a container plant. A good addition to a rock garden. Prefers settings that are well drained but moist (Osario 2001).  Note that the range, as shown is where limestore is is near the surface.  If you have it planted near concrete or limestore, it should do well throughout Florida.

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.

Wildflower garden. This is a small but pretty little plant. Grow it in a moist wildflower garden.

In the opinion of this author, this species has a weedy look.  Occurs throughout Florida but is more frequent in flatwoods pond settings and small floodplains than in areas of sandy ridges. Clump forming, suitable for planting toward the back of a moist wildflower garden.