American Sweetgum
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| Plant Information | |
| Common Name | American Sweetgum |
| Botanical Name | Liquidambar styraciflua |
| Description | |
| Plant Type | Shade |
| Mature Height | 60 to 75 ft |
| Mature Width | 50 to 60 ft |
| Growth Habit | Rounded |
| Bloom Color | Yellow-green |
| Bloom Interest | Insignificant |
| Bloom Period | April to May |
| Seasonal Interest | Summer, Fall, Winter |
| Foliage Color | Medium Green |
| Foliage Type | Star-shaped lobed |
| Fall Color | Red, Orange, Yellow |
| Attributes | Clay Soil, Deer Resistant, Rabbit Resistant, Shade Tree |
| Attracts Butterflies | No |
| Attracts Birds | No |
| Care | |
| Sun Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| USDA Hardiness Zone | 5 to 9 |
| Zoned for KC Region | Yes |
| Water Preference | Moist,Well-drained |
| Maintenance Level | Low |
| Cost | Low |
| Watering Notes | Water deeply if rainfall is less than 1" per week especially for the first 3 years after planting. After roots are established, water deeply in extreme weather situations. |
| Fertilize Notes | According to Missouri Department of Conservation, trees seldom need to be fertilized even when planting. But it may be used to increase growth rates. If the tree is weak or distressed, fertilizer should only be applied sparingly. |
| Prune Notes | Sweetgum needs little pruning but winter is the time if necessary. |