Liquidambar styraciflua

Biological Overview

Habitat
Swampy wetlands, drier upland, growing in moist, rich, alluvial soils or invading cutover hardwood stands, and pine plantations in upland sites.

Diet
A sweetgum tree “eats” by using photosynthesis to turn sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into energy. It grows best in full sun and moist, acidic soil.

Role in Ecosystem
The seeds from the sweetgum are eatan by many small birds and animals.

Behavior
Their roots are known to creep, often causing damage by lifting up sidewalks and driveways. The capsule (gumballs) open in the fall to release tiny winged seeds.

Human Impact

Humans impact the sweetgum tree in many ways, both good and bad. Because people like their star like leaves and shade, they often plant them in neighborhoods and parks. However, humans also cause problems by pressing hard the soil with heavy machinery or sidewalks, which makes it hard for roots to find water. Also, if people change the soil’s ph balance with lawn chemicals, the tree can’t absorb nutrients leading to yellow leaves.

Creative Exploration

I am as tall as the Eiffel Tower, I always sway in the wind. My fruit is spiky like a porcupine. My fall clothes turn into a rainbow of red, yellow, orange and purple.

Emmy Shepherd, Gabby Matula, Janelle Sims

Book 8