Light. Full sun to partial shade.
Water. Native to bottomlands and moist soil, it tolerates wet soil but little drought. Water during dry spells, especially while young.
Soil and feeding. Plant only where the soil pH is 7 or lower; in alkaline soil the leaves often turn yellow (chlorosis). It grows best in deep soil.
Size. About 30 ft for many years; in good conditions it can reach 60–75 ft with a 35–50 ft spread. Plant 8–10 ft or more from curbs and sidewalks, which its roots can lift.
Pruning. Little pruning is needed.
Problems to watch. Spiky gumballs litter paving. Bagworms, webworms and scale can appear; prune out small nests. Root damage or drought can cause dieback at the top.
Good to know. A Florida native and larval host for luna moths, whose leaves can turn red, purple, yellow or orange in late fall or early winter. Resinous leaves can stain concrete and car finishes.
Sources: UF/IFAS EDIS ST358: Liquidambar styraciflua: Sweetgum · Florida Native Plant Society Plant Database: Liquidambar styraciflua
