About
A deciduous, broadly conical tree to 20m tall. Large maple-like, deeply 5-lobed rich green leaves, purple-tinged when young, turn shades of purple and violet throughout autumn. Insignificant flowers in late spring are followed by spiky fruit capsules in autumn, which remain on the tree into winter. Older branches take on a corky, winged appearance.
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 typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained neutral to acid, moderately fertile soil, in full sun or partial shade. Suitable for woodlands or as a specimen tree. Full sun brings out the best autumn colour - see tree cultivation
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus