About
A small, well-branched, shapely tree or large shrub, with broadly elliptic finely serrated dark green, parchment-like leaves and large, globose, pitted seed capsules.
About the 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
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCoastal, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical
Care notes
CultivationGrow in neutral to acid, moderately fertile soil, in full sun or partial shade in a very sheltered position with protection from frost. Needs a frost-free location outdoors or greenhouse cultivation. See tree cultivation and overwinter in a greenhouse for further advice
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus