Liquidambar styraciflua

Sweet Gum
Liquidambar styraciflua
Type: Deciduous Tree
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular

Native to eastern North America, this large, handsome tree is pyramidal in form when young, but spreads with age to form a dense, rounded crown. Glossy bright green leaves are maple-like in form with 5-7 pronounced lobes. These leaves will reach 4-6in (10-15cm) across. Inconspicuous flowers give way to spiny fruits (visible in the third photo), which stay with the tree to decorate the bare branches in the winter. The foliage color in autumn is superb; shades of red, purple, yellow and green are often present all at the same time, and is long lasting, to boot.

These trees can get big though. In maturity, many varieties will reach 60ft (18m) or more high by 40ft (12m) across. Their root systems are vigorous enough to damage pavement, so make sure you plant your Sweet Gum away from driveways, sidewalks and foundations. Also the seed pods can be a bit of a nuisance (rumor has it they can pop a bike tire), so again, keep it away from traffic areas, and all will be well.

Cheers,

John