Liquidambar styraciflua 'Slender Silhouette' - Upright sweet gum

Four species of Liquidambar are native to Asia and North America. This tree is native to the eastern United States, Mexico, and into Central America. They are tall, deciduous trees used for timber, medicines and aromatics. The sweet gum is an adaptable tree usually found in moist sites. It is capable of reaching over 100 feet in height. It is one of the most important timber trees in the southeastern U.S. It produces an aromatic gum called copalm balm.

Further north, this tree can produce very colorful fall foliage. Nurseries sell several cultivars selected for their outstanding fall color.