The Sweet Gum is one of the finest trees for autumn colour.

Introduced from its native Eastern USA in the 17th century it won the equivalent of the Award of Garden Merit in 1975.

Sometimes confused with maple on account of its similar leaves this makes a large tree with a broad pyramidal crown if its central leader is retained.

Its attractive corky bark is a feature at all times of the year but it is at its magnificent best in autumn when it simply seems to burn with crimson and gold.

Suitable for streets avenues and parks it does best in fertile well drained soils.

It does not thrive in chalky soils.

Mature height: 20m+

Mature spread: 10-15m