Liquidambar styraciflua

El Liquidambar styraciflua it is a beautiful tree. It has a very elegant bearing, with its straight trunk, and a crown made up of numerous leaves that turn a striking red color during the fall.

In addition, it is a plant that in cultivation it is not particularly difficult to maintain, although yes, for this to be fulfilled the weather must accompany.

What is the origin and characteristics of the Liquidambar styraciflua?

It is a deciduous tree known by the common or popular names sweetgum or American sweetgum to differentiate it from others of the genus. It grows naturally in eastern North America, from sea level to 800 meters above sea level.

It grows up to 20, maximum 35 meters, although specimens of 41 meters have been found. Its trunk is almost like a pillar, with a diameter that can exceed 2 meters. The leaves are palmate, 7 to 21 centimeters, with five lobes, and green except before falling when they turn reddish.

It is a monoecious species. The male flowers form pedunculated clusters 3 to 6 centimeters long, and the female ones are pendulous. They are both green. The fruit is also pendulous, dry and globose, with a diameter of 2,5 to 4 centimeters, and it protects numerous winged seeds, 1 centimeter long and blackish.

What uses is it given?

Sweetgum is a tree that is widely used as a garden plant, whether private or public. It's great as a stand-alone specimen, but also looks great in groups or lineups. In this sense, it is a good tree to have as a high hedge. But it must also be said that there are those who are encouraged to work it as a bonsai.

However, it is not the only use that is given to it. Native Americans use its resin, bark, and root to curb diarrhea, treat minor skin problems, and even to relieve fever or as a sedative.

What are the care that must be given to the American liquidambar?

Sweetgum is a tree that must be grown outdoors from the start. It is a plant that must feel the passing of the seasons in order to grow and be well, for this reason, it is only recommended to grow in temperate climates, where the summers are mild and the winters cold with snowfall.

It can grow in a pot for a while, but the substrate to be used must be one suitable for acid-loving plants, with a pH between 4 and 6. If you choose to plant it in the garden, it must also have a low pH, since in clay soils its leaves will become chlorotic as a result of the lack of iron. In addition, the soil must be rich in organic matter and have very good drainage.

If we talk about irrigation, it should be moderate; that is, preventing the earth from drying out completely. Remember to use rainwater or no lime for the same reason mentioned above. Fertilize it from time to time with organic fertilizers.

To finish, you should know that it is a tree that resists up to -18ºC.