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
Buy this plant
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 GB / Ireland
- 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
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.