Sweet gum
Common Name: Sweet gum
Genus: Liquidambar
Species: styraciflua
Skill Level: Beginner
Exposure: Full sun, Partial shade
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil type: Well-drained/light, Acidic, Moist
Height: 2500cm
Spread: 1200cm
Time to plant seeds: September to November
This handsome tree from Eastern USA and Mexico produces fantastic autumn colours of orange, red and purple. For the best display, grow in full sun, however it will tolerate partial shade. The common name of sweet gum comes from the resin-like scent that its leaves produce when crushed. Young shoots often have distinctive corky ridges. It makes a beautiful tree for woodland plantings or as a specimen. Grow in neutral to acid soil that is moist but well-drained. To propagate sow seeds in pots in a cold frame in autumn.
Looks good with:
Viburnum opulusGalanthus nivalis
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