This large deciduous tree has a tapering grey-brown trunk with spreading branches that form a pyramidal habit to broad crown. It has glossy green lobed leaves that turn red, orange to yellow in autumn and the male and female flowers appear in spring.

Hardiness zones 5 to 11

Liquidambar styraciflua is naturally found in North America from Connecticut to Florida and Mexico growing in woodlands. It prefers a well drained deep fertile moist soil in an open sunny position and is frost and drought resistant. 

Liquidambar is a large tree that is grown for its growth habit and autumn foliage colour. It is planted in parks and large gardens as a lawn specimen tree or used for street plantings. It is long lived up to 200 years and will establish in 3 to 5 years. It is suitable for coastal or inland regions and grows well in a moist position tolerating a wide range of climate zones. ID 346

Liquidambar (li-kwid-ĂM-bar) styraciflua (sty-RAY-see-floo-ah)

'Liquidambar': liquid amber (refers to the sap); 'styraciflua': refers to styrax - an aromatic balsam made from the sap.

Hamamelidaceae (hama-mel-DAY-see-ee)