Liquidambar orientalis

Liquidambar orientalis Details

Liquidambar orientalis, commonly known as the Oriental Sweetgum, is grown for its beautiful foliage, form, and brilliant autumn colours. It has star-shaped leaves which emerge a light green, age to a darker green, and then turn a mix of red and pink in autumn before falling. Small, yellow flowers appear in summer through autumn and result in hard, spiked fruits. It typically grows to 15 m tall and 8 m wide with an upright, broad, and dense growth habit. Best growth is achieved when it is planted in full sun on a well-drained site. It is hardy to frosts and cold climates but should be protected from strong winds while establishing. The Oriental Sweetgum makes for a lovely specimen and is great for avenue planting, growing for shade, or planting to enjoy a spectacular autumn display.