Liquidambar styraciflua – Sweetgum Tree

General Information: Sweetgum has a reputation as one of the most impressive foliage trees in the Southeastern US. Their large crop of palmate, (star-shaped) leaves flush brilliantly red in the fall and accent surrounding evergreens beautifully. This superb tree species has an impressive native range, stretching from Southwestern Connecticut all the way to the Gulf Coast, with several disjunct populations occurring in Mexican and Central American Cloud Forests as well. In the wild, these trees have been documented at around 150 feet tall, however in cultivation they rarely exceed 70 feet, with their height diminishing towards the northern reaches of their range. This species has a special appeal to medicinal plant enthusiasts as a source of aromatic resin. While there are numerous medicinal qualities attributed to the resin, it can also be consumed, as the common name suggests, as a chewing gum.

Cultivation Details: A case of Right Plant, Wrong Location can be made for the sweetgum tree. The trouble often results from human infrastructures such as sidewalks, driveways, and even lawns encroaching on the plant’s existing habitat. The root systems of these trees grow towards the surface of the soil and will cause heaves and cracks in concrete and asphalt if they are able to grow underneath. The branches can unexpectedly fall in summer months without the impetus of strong winds, making them an occasional hazard, (not the best tree to provide shade for a picnic). The seed capsules are quite artistic in appearance, but are moderately sharp, spiny balls, (containing numerous seeds, ecologically important food sources for numerous bird and mammal species). Yet, they can be a nuisance in lawns, as they degrade slowly, are hard to remove, and there are many, (it would be advisable to use the tree in an area where you aren’t regularly walking barefoot under). Sweet gums are often called “gumball” trees for the seed pods.

It should also be noted that the capsules do not develop until the plants reach 20-25 years old. We recommend planting this species in rewilding sites, along forest edges, as a specimen, or anywhere that they have room to grow without posing a problem. As such, we do not recommend this species for urban planting. Young plants tend to be susceptible to late frosts and benefit from some protection from frosts in spring for the first few years, especially in Zones 5 and 6.

Growing Requirements: Plant in full sun to light shade. Prefers moist, well-drained soils. Does not tolerate dry sites. Suitable for most soil types, including heavy clay, as long as there is some moisture. Suitable for mildly acidic and neutral soils. Does not tolerate alkaline soils.

Fun Facts: The botanical name for this species translates to “liquid resins, flowing like Storax” in reference to the aromatic sap the bark exudes when wounded. Botanists who first studied this plant noted that the scent of the resin was reminiscent of those from the genus Styrax. Commercially, historically, and culturally important incense resins like Storax and Benzoin are derived from plants in the genus Styrax.