Liquidambar (liquidambar styraciflua)

• Spectacular autumn foliage: maple-like leaves turn vibrant shades of orange, red, purple, and yellow – one of the best displays among trees.
• Attractive star-shaped glossy green leaves in summer; some trees develop corky winged bark for winter interest.
• Pyramidal to broad conical shape, ideal as a specimen tree in large gardens, parks, or woodlands.
• Provides shade and supports wildlife (seeds eaten by birds/squirrels).
• Hardy throughout most of the UK; low-maintenance once established, pest/disease-resistant.
• Note: produces spiky seed balls.

Planting Guide

• Best time: Bare-root November–March (dormant season); container-grown autumn or spring.
• Location: Full sun for best autumn colour (partial shade tolerated); moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil (prefers fertile loam, dislikes chalky/waterlogged); requires large growing space –matures  to 20–30m+ tall/wide, unsuitable for small gardens.
• Preparation: Dig large hole twice root width; incorporate organic matter/compost for better establishment.
• Planting: Set at original depth (check trunk soil mark); stake young trees; firm in, water well, mulch base to reduce cometing weed growth and conserve soil moisture (keep mulch clear of trunk).
• Aftercare: Water regularly first few years in dry spells; minimal pruning necessary; protect from late frosts; generally easy to manage once established.