Liquidambar

Description

Liquidambar, commonly known as sweetgum tree, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Altingiaceae. It is native to the eastern and southeastern parts of North America, Mexico, and Central America. The tree is known for its star-shaped leaves that turn a beautiful mix of red, orange, and yellow in the fall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The sweetgum tree can grow up to 100 feet tall and 6 feet wide. It has a straight trunk that can reach up to 4 feet in diameter. The bark of the tree is gray and deeply furrowed. The leaves of the tree are star-shaped and can be up to 7 inches wide. The leaves turn a beautiful mix of red, orange, and yellow in the fall. The tree produces small, round, spiky fruits that are approximately 1 inch in diameter.

Care Guide

The sweetgum tree is a low-maintenance tree that can thrive in a variety of environments. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Water the tree deeply once a week, especially during the summer months.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Soil: The tree can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil.
• Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: The sweetgum tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The sweetgum tree is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:

• Aphids: These insects can cause leaf curling and honeydew buildup.
• Scale insects: These insects can cause leaf yellowing and honeydew buildup.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves.
• Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause twig and leaf blight.

Habitat

The sweetgum tree is native to the eastern and southeastern parts of North America, Mexico, and Central America. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and savannas. The tree can also grow in urban environments, such as parks and streets.

Question and Answer

Q: Can the sweetgum tree tolerate drought?

A: The sweetgum tree can tolerate some drought but prefers regular watering.

Q: Can the sweetgum tree be planted in containers?

A: The sweetgum tree can be planted in containers, but it may not grow as large as it would in the ground.

Q: Do sweetgum trees attract wildlife?

A: Yes, sweetgum trees can attract a variety of wildlife, including birds and squirrels.

Q: Can sweetgum trees be grown from cuttings?

A: Yes, sweetgum trees can be grown from cuttings, but it can be challenging.

Related Plants

• Altingia
• Hamamelis
• Styrax

References

• “Liquidambar styraciflua.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277001&isprofile=0.
• “Liquidambar styraciflua.” Plant Database. Accessed August 15, 2021. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/liquidambar-styraciflua/.
• “Sweetgum.” Arbor Day Foundation. Accessed August 15, 2021. https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=868.