American Sweetgum
Liquidambar styraciflua · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Altingiaceae
Tree Category
Shade and ornamental tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type or common landscape selection
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5 through 9
About This Tree
A medium to large deciduous tree featuring an upright, pyramidal to rounded crown with a straight trunk, star-shaped leaves, and distinctive corky ridges on the twigs
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, star-shaped leaves with 5 to 7 pointed lobes, finely serrated margins, bright green in summer, turning vibrant shades of red, purple, orange, and yellow in autumn
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown bark that develops deep furrows and ridges with age, with branches frequently displaying distinctive corky growths (wings)
Growing Information
Origin Region
Southeastern United States, Mexico, and Central America
Growing Season
Spring leafing, inconspicuous spring flowers, followed by spiky gumball fruits developing in summer, brilliant autumn foliage transitioning to winter dormancy
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun and moist, well-draining soils, though it adapts well to varying moisture levels and demonstrates moderate drought tolerance once established
Mature Size
Reaches 60 to 80 feet in height with a spread of 40 to 60 feet, featuring a moderate to fast growth rate
Special Characteristics
Renowned for its exceptional multi-colored autumn foliage, tolerance to wet soils, and unique woody spiky fruit capsules commonly known as gumballs
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides seeds consumed by birds and small mammals, and offers nesting sites and cover in its dense canopy