Liquidambar orientalis Oriental sweet gum

Hamamelidaceae

Liquidambar orientalis Oriental sweet gum

Bushy shrub to small tree that forms an exceptionally densely branched ovoid crown with overhanging branches. The trunk turns grey and is grooved. Young twigs are yellowish-green and turn reddish-brown. Older branches develop corky wings. The 5-lobed leaf is smaller and wider than L. styraciflua and also more deeply lobed to incised. The leaf edge is also lobed. The leaves are 4.5 - 7.5 cm long and 7 - 10 cm wide. In autumn the leaves turn red. The brown fruit capsules, measuring approx. 2.5 cm, appear following the unremarkable flowering. They are spiky, hang on long thin stalks and remain on the tree until deep into winter. An exceptionally attractive park tree in warm climates but the tree absolutely requires protection against severe frost on colder sites.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Specifications
Download PDF
Height
7 - 10 m, up to 30 m in natural habitat
Width
6-8m
Crown
dense, ovoid, dark, dense crown
Bark and branches
grey bark, corky wings on twigs several years old
Leaf
palmate lobed to incised, dark green, 4.5 - 7.5 cm long
Autumn colour
yellow, red
Flowers
yellowish-green, unremarkable, end of April
Fruits
ovoid, spiky fruit capsule on a long stalk, approx. 2 - 3.5 cm in length
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
nutritious, humid soils
Soil moisture
suitable for wet soil, withstand short flood
Paving
tolerates paving
Winter hardiness zone
8 (-12,2 to -6,7 °C)
Wind resistance
moderate
Shape
clearstem tree, feathered tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
Asia Minor
Clear stem tree feathered tree Multi-stem tree clay soil loamy soil peaty soil sandy soil tolerates paving suitable for wet soil withstand short flood ovoid/egg-shaped 2nd size, between 6 and 12 metres dense crown green yellowgreen average growing Attractive autumn colour non-toxic (usually) Ornamental fruit
Frequently asked questions
Liquidambar orientalis

Liquidambar orientalis can eventually reach a height of 7 - 10 m, up to 30 m in natural habitat, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Liquidambar orientalis is average growing and can eventually reach a height of 7 - 10 m, up to 30 m in natural habitat, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The leaves of Liquidambar orientalis turn yellow, red in autumn.

The right time to plant Liquidambar orientalis is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Liquidambar orientalis with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Liquidambar orientalis blooms in april.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.