Sweet Gum Tree 60/80cm (2L)

The Sweet Gum Tree – Liquidambar styraciflua is a magnificent deciduous tree that brings a touch of American beauty to gardens. Its striking star-shaped leaves create a spectacular display throughout the year.

In spring, the Sweet Gum unfurls its glossy, palm-shaped leaves in a fresh green colour. Come summer, the foliage casts a dense, cooling shade, making it an excellent choice for larger gardens or as a statement specimen.

However, it’s in autumn that the Sweet Gum truly shines. The leaves transform into a breathtaking array of colours, ranging from deep purples and crimsons to bright oranges and yellows, often all on the same tree. This autumn display is one of the most vibrant and long-lasting of any deciduous tree.

The tree’s name comes from the fragrant gum or resin that oozes from the bark if damaged. In winter, spiky, ball-shaped fruit capsules hang from the bare branches, adding interest to the winter garden and proving popular in dried flower arrangements.

Sweet Gum trees can grow quite tall, developing a pyramidal shape when young that becomes more rounded with age. Their attractive, corky bark develops deep furrows as the tree matures, adding to its year-round appeal.

Though not native to the British Isles, Sweet Gum trees have adapted well to our climate and make a stunning addition to parks and larger gardens. They’re also valuable for wildlife, with birds feeding on the seeds and small mammals using the tree for shelter.

Sweet Gum trees thrive in full sun or partial shade and prefer moist, well-drained soil. They’re adaptable to various soil types but don’t do well in very dry conditions. When planting, choose a spot with plenty of space for the tree to reach its full size. Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, then reduce watering as the tree matures. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Pruning is generally not necessary unless you need to remove dead or crossing branches, which is best done in late winter or early spring.

Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres

Time to ultimate height
more than 50 years

Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres

Supplied 60-80cm high well rooted in a 2L pot.

🇬🇧 UK grown

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.