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Description
Liquidambar Excelsa, also known as Sweetgum, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the family Altingiaceae. It is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, including Iran, Turkey, and Syria. The tree can grow up to 45 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. Its leaves are star-shaped and can grow up to 15 cm long. The tree produces small flowers that are greenish-white in color, which are followed by spiky fruits that contain seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Altingiaceae |
| Genus | Liquidambar |
Appearance
The Liquidambar Excelsa tree has a tall and slender trunk that is covered with a dark brown bark. The leaves are star-shaped and have five to seven lobes, with a glossy green color that turns to a brilliant red in the fall. The tree produces small flowers that are greenish-white in color, which are followed by spiky fruits that contain seeds. The fruits of the tree are brown and woody, and they remain on the tree throughout the winter.
Care Guide
Water: Liquidambar Excelsa requires consistent watering, especially during the summer months. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The tree requires regular fertilization during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil: Liquidambar Excelsa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.
Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun exposure but can also grow in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Liquidambar Excelsa grows well in hardiness zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Liquidambar Excelsa tree is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, mites, scale insects, and borers. It is also prone to fungal diseases such as leaf spot, cankers, and powdery mildew. Proper care and maintenance can help prevent these pests and diseases.
Habitat
Liquidambar Excelsa is native to the eastern Mediterranean region, including Iran, Turkey, and Syria. The tree grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and mountain slopes. It is well adapted to a range of climatic conditions, including hot and dry summers, and cold and wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Liquidambar Excelsa a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Liquidambar Excelsa is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 2 feet per year.
Q: When should I prune my Liquidambar Excelsa tree?
A: Prune your Liquidambar Excelsa tree during the dormant season, between late fall and early spring.
Q: Can Liquidambar Excelsa tolerate drought?
A: No, Liquidambar Excelsa requires consistent watering and cannot tolerate drought.
Q: How tall can Liquidambar Excelsa grow?
A: Liquidambar Excelsa can grow up to 45 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Liquidambar Styraciflua
- Liquidambar Orientalis
- Liquidambar Formosana
- Liquidambar Acalycina
References
- “Liquidambar Excelsa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287703.
- “Liquidambar Excelsa.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/liquidamexce.htm.
- “Liquidambar Excelsa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/22250/i-liquidambar-excelsa-i/details.
