Sweet Gum

Liquidambar styraciflua

Sweet Gum has some of the most spectacular fall color of any native tree — star-shaped leaves turn brilliant combinations of yellow, orange, red, and purple, often with multiple colors on the same tree. Fast-growing with a symmetrical pyramidal form. Note: produces spiky gumball fruits that can be a nuisance. Fruitless cultivar 'Rotundiloba' is available.

Hardiness Zones

5-9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Maintenance

Low

Mature Size

60-80 ft H × 40-50 ft W

Growth Rate

Fast

Bloom Season

Spring (inconspicuous)

Bloom Color

Greenish

Care Guide

Full sun, moist acidic soil. Very adaptable. Fast growing — 2-3 feet per year. No significant pest problems. The spiky gumballs are the main maintenance concern — choose 'Rotundiloba' to avoid them. Shallow roots can lift sidewalks.