Liquidambar styraciflua 'Worplesdon' 12ltr pot

Liquidambar styraciflua 'Worplesdon' – Sweet Gum – 12ltr Pot

'Worplesdon' is one of the most dependable sweet gums for autumn colour and holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Its glossy, rich green leaves are deeply divided into long, narrow lobes, giving them a bold star shape. In autumn they turn glowing shades of orange and gold, often touched with purple and red, and the display lasts for weeks. It grows into a handsome, branching pyramid, and with age its branches develop characterful corky ridges that add texture through winter. It is a superb specimen tree for a lawn or the centrepiece of a larger garden.

Plant in full sun for the best autumn colour, although it will tolerate partial shade. It prefers moist but well-drained, neutral to acid, moderately fertile soil. Avoid chalky or strongly alkaline ground. Dig plenty of well-rotted compost or manure into the planting hole and stake the tree firmly. Water well while it establishes. Once settled, it copes with dry spells better than many sweet gums. It is fully hardy (RHS H6) and suits exposed or sheltered sites. Little pruning is needed beyond removing broken or crossing branches in late autumn or winter. Sweet gum is not considered toxic to people or pets. Its spiky seed capsules appear reliably in autumn, so plant it away from paths and patios. Expect a height of 12m or more and a spread of over 8m within 10–20 years, so give it plenty of room.

Supplied in a 12 litre pot. Each tree is hand-selected before dispatch.