Liquidambar orientalis
oriental sweet gum
A slow-growing, large shrub or bushy tree with five-lobed, palmate leaves turning red, yellow and orange in autumn. Inconspicuous green flowers are followed by spiky, spherical seed clusters that persist into winter
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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
2.5–4 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Orange Red Yellow | Green | ||
| Winter | Brown |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Hamamelidaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Liquidambar are deciduous trees grown for their alternate, maple-like leaves which take on brilliant and long-lasting autumn colour; flowers and fruits are inconspicuous
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SW Turkey
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moderately fertile, preferably acid or neutral, moist but well-drained soil, in full sun for best autumn colour. See tree cultivation for further advice
Propagation
Propagate by seed or by semi-hardwood cuttings
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
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