Care of the tree Liquidambar styraciflua or American sweetgum |
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The genus Liquidambar, family Altingiaceae, comprises 4 species native to eastern North America, Central America, and Asia. The species are: Liquidambar styraciflua, Liquidambar acalycina, Liquidambar orientalis, Liquidambar formosana. Common names: American sweetgum, American storax, Hazel pine, Redgum, Hazel pine. This species is native to eastern North America, Central America and Mexico. They are fast-growing deciduous trees with rough bark that reach 30 meters (98.4 feet) in height. They have a conical cup that opens as it grows. They have alternate leaves with a shape very similar to the Acer leaves. They bloom in early spring, but the flowers are not decorative. They are used as isolated specimens in large gardens due to their large size and the colors of their leaves, which from autumn change from green to yellow, red and purple tones. Liquidambar styraciflua needs full sun exposure. The ideal average temperature is 10-20 ºC (50-68 ºF). Young specimens do not resist frost. They grow in well-drained soils, rich in organic matter and very humid. Planting is done in autumn or winter. Water frequently in spring and summer so that the substrate never completely dries out. Reduce watering in winter. They do not need pruning. Fertilize with compost in the fall and with mineral fertilizer in the spring. They are plants resistant to diseases and common pests. They propagate by seeds in autumn (they take months to germinate), by layering in spring or by cuttings in summer. |
Images of the tree Liquidambar styraciflua or American sweetgum |
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