Sweet Gum

Latin Name : Liquidambar styraciflua

The Sweet Gum is a native of North America, but has been here since the 1600s. Its 5 – 7 lobed leaves mean it is commonly mistaken to be a Maple tree. However, its alternate leaves help to prove otherwise.

Its spring and summer foliage make it a strikingly attractive large tree, but it is for its autumn foliage that it is particularly well liked.

In the winter months, its winged, corky bark, evident on the older twigs of the bare branches is often a feature.