tree

Worplesdon Sweetgum

Liquidambar styraciflua 'Worplesdon'

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

600 inches

Width

360 inches

Light

Full Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium to wet

Humidity

Moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived tree

Native To

Cultivar of North American native

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Liquidambar styraciflua, the American Sweetgum, is a large deciduous tree native to North America, known for its star-shaped leaves, corky bark, and brilliant fall color. It produces spiky, gumball-like fruits. 'Worplesdon' is a highly regarded cultivar selected for its reliably spectacular fall color, which includes shades of apricot, orange, and rich purple-red. It also has more deeply lobed leaves than the species and produces fewer fruits.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Its primary asset is its stunning and reliable multi-toned fall color. The star-shaped leaves are attractive all summer, and the architectural branching and corky bark provide winter interest.

It is a fast-growing tree that provides excellent shade. Its tolerance for moist soils makes it suitable for a wide range of landscape situations.

The seeds within the fruit balls are eaten by birds, including finches and cardinals, as well as squirrels. It is a host plant for the Luna moth.

Marketplace

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun to achieve the best fall color.
Ensure the soil is moist but well-drained; it tolerates clay.
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball.
Plant the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Backfill with native soil and water deeply.
Mulch around the base to conserve moisture.

Pro Tip

Plant in slightly acidic soil for the most intense and reliable fall coloration.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent water, especially during establishment and dry spells.
Allow plenty of room for its mature size.
Rake up the spiky fruit balls in fall if they are in a lawn area.

Don't

Do not plant in alkaline soils, which can cause chlorosis (yellowing leaves).
Avoid planting where the fruit balls will be a nuisance on patios or walkways.
Don't plant in very dry sites.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Outstanding specimen tree for fall colorShade tree for large lawns or parksStreet tree in areas with ample space

Companion Plants

Fothergilla gardenii Itea virginica Amelanchier canadensis Viburnum dentatum Carex pensylvanica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Worplesdon Sweetgum questions

What zones can Worplesdon Sweetgum grow in?

Worplesdon Sweetgum is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Worplesdon Sweetgum deer resistant?

Yes — Worplesdon Sweetgum is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Worplesdon Sweetgum bloom?

Worplesdon Sweetgum typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Worplesdon Sweetgum need full sun?

Worplesdon Sweetgum does best in full sun (6+ hours).