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Liquidambar styraciflua
Sweet Gum
A wet-site tolerant and very useful shade tree with star-shaped foliage, neat pyramidal habit in youth, attractive winged twigs, and most notably, fabulous fall color. The glossy green summer leaves gradually change to an intense mixture of reds, oranges, yellows, maroon, and/or deep plum. Color is variable on the species; one tree may exhibit all yellows or mostly orange, another pure plum, and yet another uncommonly subtle fall color. Non-showy flowers will change to the well-known brown gumballs in fall and trees should be planted away from pedestrian traffic. Wood has been used in the furniture and flooring trade and the liquid gum from the trunk for chewing gum, medicines, and perfume.
Bloom Color:
Green, Inconspicuous, Yellow
Growing & Maintenance Tips:
Avoid alkaline soils.
Liquidambar styraciflua Characteristics & Attributes:
Native to Northeastern US
Full Sun
Average Water
Moist, Well-Drained
Wet Soil/Wetlands
Attributes
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Ornamental Fruit |
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Groupings |
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Shade Tree |
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Specimen |
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Moist Areas |
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Fragrant Foliage |
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Fall Color |
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Naturalizing |
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Season of Interest (Fruit)
Season of Interest (Bark, Branches, Twig)
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Winter Color |
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Winter Branching Pattern |