Below, we describe Liquidambar styraciflua, the sweetgum tree. When young, the tree forms a fairly narrow pyramidal crown. Later, the tree becomes noticeably wider and develops a more oval crown shape. However, the crown often continues to grow in a somewhat irregular pattern. It is a beautiful tree to plant along a greenbelt or in a park. This tree species is well-suited as an avenue tree in a residential neighborhood; for uniformity, you can also choose a cultivar. One characteristic to keep in mind with Liquidambar is that a branch may occasionally break off.
The five- to seven-lobed leaves are very ornamental and have a fresh green color. In the fall, the leaves turn beautiful shades of yellow, orange, dark red, and purple. The tree blooms in April and May with inconspicuous yellow-green flowers. Over the course of the summer, round, stalk-like capsules appear; these can remain on the tree well into late winter. Especially on older trees, the corky strips on the trunk and branches are striking and very ornamental.
Liquidambar styraciflua is native to regions in the northeastern part of North America.
Photo locations: Sint-Oedenrode, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Delft, Brussels, and our nursery
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