Chinese Sweetgum
liquidambar formosana
Also known as: ["Chinese Alligator Tree","Formosan Sweetgum"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to East Asia, known for its star-shaped leaves and ornamental corky bark.
Benefits & Perks
["seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Altingiaceae |
| Genus: | Liquidambar |
| Botanical Name: | Liquidambar formosana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in temperate climates, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates some shade but may become leggy in deep shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. Place in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid intense midday sun; provide dappled light in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C) during active growth.
Protect from frost; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid placing near drafty windows.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize before new growth emerges; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is semi-hardened.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting bottle, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control height.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to allow absorption, and ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop or browning in cold stress, stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl, turn brown, or drop prematurely. Growth slows or halts in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter, protect from cold winds, and avoid overwatering during dormancy.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop during prolonged heat waves above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLiquidambar formosana is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLiquidambar formosana is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would cause harm to canines upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLiquidambar formosana is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Liquidambar formosana have fragrant flowers?
A: No, its flowers are not particularly fragrant.
Q: Is this plant suitable for small gardens?
A: Due to its size, it is best suited for larger landscapes.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Altingiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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