sweet gum
Liquidambar acalycina
USDA zones6 to 9
SunNeeds full sun (6+ hours)
WaterNeeds moderate soil
Size30 to 50 feet tall20 to 30 feet wide
- Bloom season
- Spring
- Bloom color
- Yellowish-green
- Fall color
- Yes
Garden uses
Notes
Sweet gum (Liquidambar acalycina) is a tree for shade gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 6, or down to -10°F (-23°C). This plant likes full sun and average moisture. Yellowish-green flowers open in mid to late spring, and the leaves color up in fall. It is not a favorite of deer, though hungry deer will eat almost anything. It can reach 30 to 50 feet tall and 20 to 30 feet wide, so give it room.
Pairs well with Chinese pistache, Cucumber tree, Sedge, and Stained Glass hosta.
Native range
China.