Product description
Sometimes known as the Alligator tree, this stunning Sweet Gum will turn your autumn garden into a fantasy of colour. The alligator reference comes from the bark which is fissured and corky. This bark is ideal to create a collage of bark rubbings, a fascinating holiday project to get children interested in nature.
Sweet Gum tree offers glossy green star-shaped leaves through the summer. As the weather cools, the foliage turns to a brilliant purple and then into vibrant shades of yellow, orange and claret red, creating a mesmerising display in your garden. In the spring, inconspicuous yellow flowers appear which are followed by round, spiky fruit cases. The fruit can be rather messy when it falls, so be prepared to do a clean up every now and then.
The Worplesdon is a hardy tree that thrives well in moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. It will grow in most soil types but should not be allowed to dry out. It will reach a height of around 25m with a pyramidal shape over a 20 year period. To ensure that you get the most vibrant colours, plant your Sweet Gum in full sun.
Pruning is best done in the winter. The lower branches can be removed to create space for a walkway or picnic area underneath the tree.
This tree offers one of the most spectacular autumn displays and should become a part of your medium to large sized garden.
Sweet Gum Tree
Liquidambar 'Worplesdon'
Liquidambar 'Worplesdon'
Product description
Sometimes known as the Alligator tree, this stunning Sweet Gum will turn your autumn garden into a fantasy of colour. The alligator reference comes from the bark which is fissured and corky. This bark is ideal to create a collage of bark rubbings, a fascinating holiday project to get children interested in nature.
Sweet Gum tree offers glossy green star-shaped leaves through the summer. As the weather cools, the foliage turns to a brilliant purple and then into vibrant shades of yellow, orange and claret red, creating a mesmerising display in your garden. In the spring, inconspicuous yellow flowers appear which are followed by round, spiky fruit cases. The fruit can be rather messy when it falls, so be prepared to do a clean up every now and then.
The Worplesdon is a hardy tree that thrives well in moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. It will grow in most soil types but should not be allowed to dry out. It will reach a height of around 25m with a pyramidal shape over a 20 year period. To ensure that you get the most vibrant colours, plant your Sweet Gum in full sun.
Pruning is best done in the winter. The lower branches can be removed to create space for a walkway or picnic area underneath the tree.
This tree offers one of the most spectacular autumn displays and should become a part of your medium to large sized garden.
Give your tree the best start
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Liquidambar trees in late winter or early spring to remove damaged or crossing branches, promoting a healthy structure and airflow. Avoid pruning during the growing season, as this can cause sap bleeding. For best autumn colour displays, plant the tree in full sun and ensure it has access to consistent moisture during summer. Regularly monitor the tree for signs of pests or diseases, and feed with a balanced fertiliser in spring for vigorous growth.
How to Water
Water Liquidambar trees deeply after planting and maintain consistent moisture during their first year to encourage strong root establishment. Once established, water only during prolonged dry periods, as these trees are relatively drought-tolerant. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Water early in the morning or evening to reduce evaporation, and use rainwater where possible for optimal soil health.
How to Plant
To plant a Liquidambar tree, choose a sunny or partially shaded spot with well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface, then backfill with the excavated soil, firming gently as you go to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting and apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it a few centimetres away from the trunk.
