Sweet Gum

Classification:         

Liquidambar styraciflua

Description:

Cone-shaped, upright deciduous tree.  Young trees attain 25-30' height in 8-12 years in moist soil, or in 10-15 years in dry conditions.  Matures to 60-70'.  Hard to transplant trees of 15' or taller.  Bark silvery brown and furrowed; twigs and young branches winged.

Leaf:

Leaves open in late spring, hold late in fall; 4-7" across, dark green.  Fall colors of varying yellows, oranges and reds hold to late fall.

Flower:

Flowers inconspicuous greenish clusters, followed by prickly seed balls which drop with the leaves.

Fruit:

None.

Light:

Full sun or light shade.

Uses:

Shade tree, street tree, accent or specimen.

Donation Cost:

$850