Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Sweet Gum
Liquidambar styraciflua

Sweet Gum leaves
Sweet Gum leaves
 
Features
Unusual star-shaped leaves that change from green to a mix of yellow, red and purple in autumn. 
 
Culture
Full sun; moist, well drained soil; prefers acid soil; tolerates wet sites. 
 
Cultivars

These cultivars are considered to be more cold hardy:

  • 'Cherokee'-relatively few fruit, good fall color.
  • Gold Dust:R: -green and gold variegated leaves.
  • 'Moraine' -good fall color and good habit (upright-oval).
 
 
Mature Height
60-75 Feet
 
Size
Large
 
 
Mature Form
Oval to rounded 
 
Native To:
United States 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
Wet
 
 
Tolerance
Wet Sites
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
 
 
Uses
Shade
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Purple
Red
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems

Environmental Damage

Fungal Disease


Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:

Scale insect and leaf spots. This tree may suffer winter damage in the northern portion of zone 5.Chlorosis (yellowing) may occur in alkaline soils.
 
Additional Notes
The round, woody fruits are a nuisance.

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic