Liquidambar styraciflua

American Sweet Gum, Sweet Gum, Sweetgum

Good as shade trees or planted in informal groves, their star-shaped leaves turn red, yellow, orange or purple in fall. Their round spiny fruits are shaped like the maces that medieval knights once carried. Their fruits contain the gummy sap that inspired their common name, Sweet Gum. Ridged bark resembles cork. They tolerate coastal conditions if sheltered from strong winds. Not recommended as street trees due to honeydew drip from aphids and scale, plus the litter from their fruit. Water deeply during dry spells to promote growth and deep roots. Shallow roots can crack pavement. Iron chlorosis is a problem in high pH soils.
Liquidambar styraciflua, American Sweet Gum, Sweet Gum, Sweetgum
One of the most spectacular fall color trees for gardens or city parks, its maple-shaped leaves last until late autumn. Pyramidal shape when young, older trees have a rounded crown.

Attributes - Liquidambar styraciflua

Plant Type: Tree

Foliage: Deciduous

Height: 50 ft. to 80 ft.

Width: 50 ft.

Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun

Climate: Zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Notes: Thrives in Acid Soil. Container Plants, Low Maintenance. Susceptible to Root Rot.

Related Plants

Liquidambar styraciflua, Liquidambar styraciflua 'Burgundy', Liquidambar styraciflua 'Festival', Liquidambar styraciflua 'Palo Alto', Liquidambar styraciflua 'Rotundiloba'
 
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