About
A broadly conical specimen tree, with dense, alternate, maple-like leaves colouring though orange to brilliant purplish red in autumn. Flowers are insignificant and the fruits are decorative round, prickly, woody 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 typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, East-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, City and courtyard gardens
Care notes
CultivationThrives in lime-free, moist but well-drained soil in sun or partial shade. Grow in woodland or as a specimen tree. Full sun brings out best autumn colour.
PruningPruning group 1
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to honey fungus