What are the different varieties of sweet gum?

Sweet gum, scientifically known as Liquidambar styraciflua, is a deciduous tree native to North America. It is widely cultivated for its ornamental value, as well as for its timber and medicinal properties. There are several distinct varieties of sweet gum, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.

1. American Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua)

The American sweet gum is the most common and widely recognized variety. It is known for its distinctive star-shaped leaves that turn vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. This variety is highly valued for its timber, which is used in furniture making, veneer production, and flooring.

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2. Rotundiloba Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Rotundiloba’)

The Rotundiloba sweet gum is a cultivated variety that is prized for its lack of fruit production. Unlike other sweet gum varieties, it does not produce the spiky, round fruit pods that can be a nuisance to clean up. This makes it a popular choice for landscaping in urban areas.

3. Worplesdon Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’)

The Worplesdon sweet gum is a cultivar known for its exceptional autumn foliage. Its leaves turn a striking mix of red, purple, and orange, creating a stunning display. This variety is often planted as an ornamental tree in parks, gardens, and large landscapes.

4. Slender Silhouette Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Slender Silhouette’)

The Slender Silhouette sweet gum is a narrow, columnar variety that is ideal for small spaces. It has a compact growth habit and reaches a height of up to 50 feet. This variety is often used as a vertical accent in landscapes or as a privacy screen.

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5. Moraine Sweet Gum (Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Moraine’)

The Moraine sweet gum is a cold-hardy variety that is well-suited for northern regions. It can withstand harsh winters and still produce vibrant fall foliage. This variety is often planted in areas with colder climates for its aesthetic appeal and adaptability.

These are just a few examples of the different varieties of sweet gum. Each variety offers its own unique beauty and benefits, making sweet gum a versatile and popular choice among gardeners, landscapers, and forestry enthusiasts.

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Keywords: variety, liquidambar, styraciflua, varieties, rotundiloba, worplesdon, slender, silhouette, moraine