About
A spreading deciduous tree with a weeping, pendulous habit, maturing to 6m. The deeply divided maple-like leaves turn vivid red, orange and yellow in autumn. Insignificant flowers in late spring are followed by spiky fruit capsules in autumn. Branches develop a corky, winged appearance. Very bright autumn colour.
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, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitPendulous weeping
FoliageDeciduous
Height4-8 metres
Spread4-8 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural
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-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus