Sheffield's Seed Company Page

Liquidambar styraciflua, also known as Redgum, Sapgum, or Sweetgum, is a magnificent deciduous hardwood tree that can grow to a height of 20-35 meters, with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. Its palmately lobed leaves are 7-19 cm long and slightly resemble those of some maples, but they are distinguished by their glossy, leathery appearance and alternate arrangement. This ornamental tree has a symmetrical cone-shaped crown and star-shaped leaves with finely sawtoothed lobes that provide excellent fall colors. The woody fruits, commonly called "monkey balls" or "sticky balls," are spiny and globe-shaped, about 1 to 1.25 inches in diameter, and turn brown upon maturity. Liquidambar styraciflua grows best on moist, well-drained sites and tolerates a wide range of conditions, from full sun to filtered shade. This fast-growing tree is often planted for its large size and reddish fall color, making it a highly sought-after tree for landscaping and ornamental gardening.