Liquidambar acalycina, commonly known as Chang’s Sweet Gum, is a deciduous tree native to mixed evergreen and deciduous forests in southern China. It typically grows to a height of 30-50 feet (9-15 meters) and a width of 20-30 feet (6-9 meters). The tree is characterized by its three-lobed, maple-like leaves that provide a stunning display of red color in autumn. During the spring, it produces inconspicuous yellow-green flowers, which are followed by small, spiky gum-ball fruits. The bark is furrowed, adding textural interest to the landscape. Chang’s Sweet Gum is known for its sweet-smelling resin, which is exuded when the bark is pierced.

Chang’s Sweet Gum is valued for its bright fall foliage and the ornamental appeal of its leaves, which resemble those of maples. It is suitable for use in urban settings, residential gardens, and parks, often planted for its aesthetic qualities. This tree prefers reliably moist, acid to neutral soil and can be planted in full sun or partial shade. It requires moderate water and benefits from mulching to maintain soil moisture. ’Burgundy Flush’, a popular cultivar, has received the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit for its deep burgundy spring foliage that matures to green. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and canker diseases, and the gum-balls may require cleanup as they fall.CC BY-SA 4.0