Liquidambar styraciflua Slender Silhouette

Slender Silhouette Sweetgum

Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Slender Silhouette’ (Columnar Sweetgum) is a deciduous tree with an extremely narrow, upright columnar habit, featuring glossy, star-shaped green leaves that turn outstanding shades of red, orange, purple, and burgundy in fall. Its exceptionally tight form makes it especially useful where vertical accent and fall color are desired but horizontal space is limited.

Type: Tree (Deciduous)
Mature Size: 4–6' W × 40–60' H
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Narrow columnar

Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Adaptable to moist, well-drained soils; moderate water, prefers consistent moisture but tolerates occasional wet conditions once established
Bloom Time / Length: Inconspicuous spring flowers; not ornamental

Wildlife: Birds (cover), minimal pollinator value

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for narrow spaces, vertical accents, screening, and formal landscapes. Its pencil-thin habit makes it ideal for small yards, tight foundation areas, and street-side plantings where a standard sweetgum would be too broad. Provides strong architectural form and brilliant fall color.

Care:
Plant in full sun with room for height. Water regularly during establishment. Minimal pruning is needed to maintain its natural shape. Best color develops in full sun; avoid overly dry or compacted soils.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Shade Tree

Height

40-60'

Width

4-6'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Brown

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Provide Shade, Specimen, Street Tree

Shape

Columnar, Narrow Upright

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No