Sweetgum
Description
Primarily a southern species, its leaves are star-shaped with 5 lobes, and its seedheads are a distinctive horny sphere. Fall color is brilliant and multi-colored. Branches develop corky ridges. The sap has a sweet taste and gummy consistency. Sweetgum is often a pioneer species in abandoned fields, especially in the south.
Photos
Fruit
Branch
Bark
Scientific Name: Liquidambar styraciflua
Family: Witch-Hazel
Seasonality: Deciduous
Wood Type: Hardwood
Shade Tolerance: Intolerant
Inventory Number: 1498