Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ – Sweet Gum
Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ is a handsome, deciduous tree prized for its spectacular autumn colour and reliable performance in UK gardens. Its distinctive, star-shaped green leaves turn brilliant shades of yellow, orange, crimson, and purple in autumn, creating a striking seasonal display. With a strong, upright habit and good tolerance of cooler climates, ‘Worplesdon’ is an excellent choice for gardens, parks, and avenues.
Why Grow Liquidambar ‘Worplesdon’?
Exceptional Autumn Colour – Reliable, intense autumn foliage in a wide range of fiery tones.
Distinctive Foliage – Star-shaped leaves add interest throughout the growing season.
Strong Upright Habit – Forms a well-shaped, symmetrical tree.
Hardy and Reliable – Performs well in UK conditions, even in cooler areas.
Long-Lived Specimen Tree – Ideal for long-term landscape planting.
Height and Spread
Typically reaches 12–15m (40–50ft) in height with a spread of 6–8m (20–26ft) at maturity.
Where to Site Your Liquidambar ‘Worplesdon’
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Lawns & Large Gardens: Makes a superb specimen tree
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Parks & Avenues: Ideal for landscape use
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Autumn Interest Gardens: Outstanding seasonal colour
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Mixed Deciduous Plantings: Complements oaks, birch, and maples
How to Grow and Care
Soil – Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil is ideal. Avoid chalky or alkaline soils.
Light – Full sun for best autumn colour.
Watering – Water regularly while establishing; drought-tolerant once mature.
Maintenance
Pruning: Minimal; remove dead or damaged wood in winter.
Mulching: Apply organic mulch annually to retain moisture and improve soil.
Pests & Diseases: Generally trouble-free.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Underplanting: Spring bulbs, ferns, shade-tolerant perennials
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Trees: Betula, Acer, Quercus
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Shrubs: Rhododendron, Hydrangea
Conclusion
Liquidambar styraciflua ‘Worplesdon’ is an outstanding deciduous tree offering dramatic autumn colour, attractive foliage, and reliable growth. A superb choice for gardens and landscapes where seasonal interest and structure are desired.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.