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Sweetgum
Liquidambar styraciflua
L.
liquid-AM-ber
sty-rack-IF-flu-ah
Hamamelidaceae
Explanation
of name:
Generic name refers to liquid amber, the fragrant sticky sap of the tree. The
specific name suggests “flowing from Storax,” another plant with fragrant resin
(DEH).
Natural
range:
Eastern U.S. to Mesoamerica, including Florida
Recognition:
Tree with star-shaped alternate leaves and woody fruit clusters resembling a
toothy golf ball. Monoecious
Landscape
uses:
Fast-growing deciduous tree with fall color. At home in warm-temperate
latitudes. Fruits messy.
|
Botanical |
English |
FL native |
Growth form
|
Flowering season
|
Typical dimensions
|
Suggested spacing |
Cultural conditions
|
Problems
|
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Liquidambar
styraciflua |
Sweet Gum |
Native to FL |
Tree |
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To 120’
(DEH) |
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SU-PS
ST-
ME-MO
(DEH, PBCC)
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Fruits a nuisance to rake up.
Not DT
Not tolerant of pollution
Wind damage |
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