Sweetgum

(Liquidambar styraciflua)

Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Liquidambar styraciflua, commonly known as Sweetgum, is a deciduous tree native to a variety of habitats including moist, lowland areas, along streams, and in mixed hardwood forests across the Southeastern U.S., extending to parts of Central America. It can grow to 15–20 m (50–70 ft) in cultivation and up to 45 m (150 ft) in the wild, with a trunk diameter of 60–90 cm (2–3 ft). Sweetgum trees can live for up to 400 years and develop a symmetrical, egg-shaped crown as they mature. The star-shaped leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple in autumn. The spiky fruit balls are distinctive, though not always considered desirable. Sweetgum is valued for its stunning fall foliage and use as a shade tree in large spaces.

Sweetgum thrives in moist, acidic loam or clay soils and is often found alongside species like willow oak and sweetbay magnolia. It has moderate salt tolerance and does not perform well in shade. For optimal growth, it requires full sun and can adapt to various drainage conditions. While it is a popular ornamental tree, the spiny fruits can be a nuisance in landscaped areas, and its aggressive root system may cause problems near pavements or foundations. It is less commonly used for timber due to the interlocked grain of the wood.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 60-80 feet
  • Width: 40-60 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Fire Resistant, Fragrant, Rabbit Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Moist, lowland areas, along streams, and in mixed hardwood forests across the Southeastern U.S., and parts of Central America

Other Names

Common Names: Alligator-Wood, Satin-Walnut, American-Storax, Red-Gum, Sweet-Gum, Amerikanischer Amberbaum, Liquidambra D’America, Amerikaanse Amberboom, Ambraträd, American Sweet Gum

Scientific Names: , Liquidambar styraciflua, Liquidambar macrophylla, Liquidambar styraciflua var. mexicana, Liquidambar styraciflua f. rotundiloba, Liquidambar styraciflua f. pendula, Liquidambar barbata, Liquidambar gummifera, Liquidambar styraciflua var. macrophylla,

GBIF Accepted Name: Liquidambar styraciflua L.