A tall, conical shade tree with star-shaped maple-like leaves that colour spectacularly in shades of crimson, purple and gold through autumn. A classic avenue and parkland tree.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 20 m H × 10 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Liquidambar
Botanically, Liquidambar styraciflua is a fast-growing tree in the Altingiaceae family. It reaches around 20 m tall and 10 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow Liquidambar
Liquidambar suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Liquidambar does best in loamy and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Liquidambar does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Liquidambar in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Liquidambar in the garden
Liquidambar earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting and a windbreak.
Companion planting & design
Combine Liquidambar with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Liquidambar
Plant Sale lists Liquidambar as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
