Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Altingiaceae |
| Genus | Liquidambar |
Description
Liquidambar Formosana, also known as the Chinese sweetgum, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Altingiaceae family. It is native to Taiwan, China, and Vietnam, and can grow up to 20-25 meters tall. The tree has a pyramidal shape when young, but as it matures, it becomes more rounded with a spreading crown. The bark is grayish-brown and deeply furrowed, while the leaves are green, glossy, and star-shaped with five or seven lobes. In autumn, the leaves turn spectacular shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a popular ornamental tree in parks and gardens. The tree also produces small, spiny fruits that contain one or two seeds.
Appearance
Liquidambar Formosana is a large, tall tree that can grow up to 20-25 meters tall with a spread of 10-15 meters. The trunk can have a diameter of up to 1 meter. The tree has a pyramidal shape when young, but as it matures, it becomes more rounded with a spreading crown. The bark is grayish-brown and deeply furrowed, while the leaves are green, glossy, and star-shaped with five or seven lobes. In autumn, the leaves turn spectacular shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it a popular ornamental tree in parks and gardens. The tree also produces small, spiny fruits that contain one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Liquidambar Formosana requires regular watering during its first year of growth. After that, it can tolerate some drought, but it still prefers moist soil. Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Liquidambar Formosana benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer.
Soil: Liquidambar Formosana prefers well-draining, moist soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils, as long as they are not waterlogged.
Sunlight: Liquidambar Formosana prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not grow as well or produce as vibrant fall colors.
Hardiness Zones: Liquidambar Formosana is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Liquidambar Formosana is generally a healthy tree, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water.
- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck the sap. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. It can be controlled with fungicides and good cultural practices.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides and good cultural practices.
Habitat
Liquidambar Formosana is native to Taiwan, China, and Vietnam, where it grows in moist, well-draining soils in lowland and mountain forests. It prefers warm, humid climates and can tolerate some drought. The tree is also popular as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Liquidambar Formosana a good shade tree?
A: Yes, Liquidambar Formosana is a good shade tree. It has a spreading crown and produces large, shiny leaves that provide good shade during the summer months.
Q: Can Liquidambar Formosana grow in cold climates?
A: No, Liquidambar Formosana is not cold hardy and cannot withstand temperatures below -5°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-9, which have mild winters.
Q: How often should I fertilize Liquidambar Formosana?
A: Liquidambar Formosana benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in mid-summer.
Q: Can Liquidambar Formosana grow in containers?
A: No, Liquidambar Formosana is not suitable for growing in containers. It requires a large planting space to accommodate its size and spreading crown.
Related Plants
- Liquidambar styraciflua
- Liquidambar orientalis
- Liquidambar acalycina
- Liquidambar formosana ‘Gumball’
References
- “Liquidambar Formosana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 September 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c740.
- “Liquidambar Formosana.” Plantwise. Accessed 15 September 2021. www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/12198.
- “Liquidambar Formosana.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 15 September 2021. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17231/Liquidambar-formosana/Details.
