Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’

Description

Quick Facts

Botanical Name: Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’
Common Name: Sweet Gum
Plant Type: Deciduous tree
Mature Height: Approx. 12m–15m
Mature Spread: Approx. 6m–8m
Flowering Period: Spring, though flowers are insignificant
Flower Colour: Inconspicuous
Foliage Colour: Glossy green, turning rich shades of red, orange and purple in autumn
Hardiness: Hardy
Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil
Aspect: Full sun
Maintenance: Low

Description

Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ is a handsome, upright tree with a strong presence and superb autumn colour. Its glossy green, star-shaped foliage brings a fresh, elegant look through the growing season before turning to rich shades of red, orange and purple in autumn, making it a real highlight in the garden. A fine choice for adding height, structure and seasonal drama.

Caragh Garden Notebook

Planting:
Plant in spring or autumn in moist, well-drained soil. It will settle in best in a sunny, open position where it has room to develop its natural shape.

Watering:
Water well after planting and during dry spells in the first few years while the tree establishes.

Feeding:
A spring mulch of compost or well-rotted organic matter will help support healthy growth.

Seasonal Care & Tidy-Up:
Minimal pruning is needed. Remove any dead, damaged or crossing branches in late winter if required.

Pests & Problems:
Generally reliable and easy to grow in suitable conditions, especially where drainage is good.

Design Notes:
Ideal as a specimen tree for larger gardens, where its autumn colour can really shine. It works beautifully as a focal point in lawns, borders and landscape planting schemes.