SeedlingSweetgum
Sweetgum
Liquidambar styraciflua
$4.50per seedling
Coming soon
This species isn't available to order yet — check back when the next season opens.
Quick facts
- Mature size
- — 60–75 ft tall · 40–50 ft wide
- Growth speed
- — Medium — 1–2 ft of new growth a year
- Sunlight
- — Full sun (6+ hrs direct sun)
- Soil
- — Average / moist · Wet / occasionally flooded
- Good for
- — Reforestation & timber · Yard, shade & beauty · Streamside & wet areas
- Wildlife
- — Seeds in the spiky gumballs feed goldfinches, chickadees, and mourning doves through winter.
About this species
Sweetgum is a striking native tree admired for its star-shaped leaves and vibrant fall color, ranging from yellow and orange to deep reds and purples. In summer, its glossy green foliage creates a full, symmetrical canopy, while its distinctive spiky seed balls add visual interest and persist into winter. Sweetgum thrives in moist, well-drained soils and full sun, making it suitable for parks, large yards, and naturalized landscapes across Ohio. Known for its strong wood and rapid growth, the tree provides valuable wildlife habitat and adds seasonal beauty to a wide variety of settings.
Planting notes
Give it room on moist ground and avoid compacted soil. Spiky seed balls drop through winter — keep clear of lawns and walkways.