Liquidambar formosana, commonly known as Formosan Sweetgum or Formosan Gum, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including mixed forests, forest margins, and limestone hills in East Asia, specifically China, Korea, Laos, Taiwan, and Vietnam. It can reach a height of 30-40 meters with a broad pyramidal to rounded canopy. The leaves are star-shaped with pointed lobes, turning a striking red to purple color in autumn. The bark is deeply furrowed, and branches may have corky projections. Flowers are inconspicuous, with separate male and female flowers on the same tree (monoecious), blooming in spring. The fruit is a spiky capsule that adds ornamental interest in the winter landscape.

Formosan Sweetgum is valued for its vibrant fall foliage and its use as a shade tree in large spaces. It is suitable for urban planting, large gardens, and parks. While it prefers moist, well-drained soils, it is adaptable to a range of soil conditions, including clay, loam, and sand, provided they are not waterlogged. It thrives in full sun to partial shade. This species is less tolerant of urban pollution than its American counterpart, Liquidambar styraciflua. Aggressive roots can cause issues with sidewalks and foundations, so it should be planted with care in urban settings.CC BY-SA 4.0