Sweet Gum Tree 100/120cm (2L)

Sweet Gum Tree – Liquidambar styraciflua is a handsome deciduous tree grown above all for its autumn colour, which ranks among the most reliable and long-lasting of any tree that can be grown in gardens. The glossy, star-shaped leaves have five to seven pointed lobes and can be mistaken for maple at first glance, though the alternate leaf arrangement and corky, ridged bark quickly give the difference away. Through spring and summer the foliage is a deep, polished green that casts pleasant dappled shade, then from October onwards it turns through amber, orange, scarlet, crimson and finally a deep burgundy-purple, often with several of those colours present on the same branch.

This particular plant is supplied at 100/120cm tall in a 2L pot, a young whip-sized specimen that establishes quickly and is easy to handle, plant and stake. Buying at this stage is a practical way to start a long-lived tree: young sweet gums put on strong extension growth once their roots take hold, frequently outpacing much larger and more expensive nursery stock within a few seasons.

In maturity the tree develops a neat conical to pyramidal outline, gradually broadening with age into a rounded crown. Older trunks form distinctively fissured bark, and some branches produce curious corky wings. The spiky, spherical seed capsules that follow the inconspicuous spring flowers are a familiar sight beneath established trees. It suits large lawns, parkland-style planting, wide verges and generous mixed borders where it can be given room to grow, and it is far too vigorous for small plots or planting close to buildings.

Care Guide

Plant between autumn and early spring while the tree is dormant, choosing an open position in full sun or light shade. Sweet gum performs best in deep, moist but free-draining soil that is neutral to acidic; on thin chalk the leaves may turn yellow and autumn colour will disappoint, so improve heavy or poor ground with leaf mould and well-rotted organic matter before planting.

Dig a square hole roughly three times the width of the root ball, tease out any circling roots, and set the tree at the same depth it sat in the pot. Firm gently, water in thoroughly and mulch with 5/7cm of bark or compost, keeping it clear of the stem. Use a short stake and a flexible tie for the first two seasons in exposed gardens, loosening the tie as the trunk thickens.

Water deeply once or twice a week through the first two summers, especially during dry spells, as young trees are intolerant of drought. Established specimens are largely self-sufficient in the British climate and fully hardy, tolerating cold winters without protection. A spring feed of general fertiliser and a fresh mulch each year will support steady growth.

Pruning is rarely needed beyond removing dead, damaged or crossing branches in late winter. Formative pruning to establish a single clear leader should be carried out while the tree is young. The species is generally trouble-free, with no significant pest or disease problems in gardens.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
20–50 years

Ultimate spread
8–12 metres

Please note: Decorative pots shown are for display purposes only. Your tree will be supplied in a standard plastic nursery pot shown in the other pictures.