Liquidambar styraciflua 'Worplesdon'

Worplesdon Sweetgum

Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ (Sweetgum) is a deciduous tree with a strong pyramidal habit, featuring glossy, deeply cut, star-shaped green leaves with long, narrow lobes. In fall, the foliage turns rich shades of orange, yellow, red, and purple, and older branches develop attractive corky wings. This cultivar is especially valued for its pleasing form and reliable autumn color.

Type: Tree (Deciduous)
Mature Size: 25–30' W × 40–60' H
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Pyramidal

Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Moist, well-drained to well-drained acidic or neutral soils; moderate water, prefers consistent moisture but tolerates some wet and dry conditions once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late spring; flowers insignificant, followed by spiky fruit in fall

Wildlife: Birds (cover), minimal pollinator value

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent as a specimen, shade tree, or lawn tree in larger landscapes. Its narrow-lobed foliage gives it a slightly finer texture than typical sweetgum, and the dependable fall display makes it a standout seasonal feature.

Care:
Plant in full sun in well-drained soil with room to mature. Water regularly during establishment. Minimal pruning is usually needed beyond maintaining a central leader and removing damaged branches. Be aware that this cultivar does produce the typical spiky sweetgum fruit. 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Shade Tree

Height

40-60'

Width

25-30'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Red, Yellow

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Provide Shade, Street Tree

Bark

Corky

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No