Liquidambar styraciflua
Sweetgum, Redgum, Sapgum

Mature Height: 70-155'     Longevity: 350 years

3-8 Water Range
Soil moisture tolerated by tree

6-9 Temperature Range
Hardiness Zones in which tree naturally occurs.

DEFENSE     Soil Moisture Key
3: Does not tolerate sustained drought but found in most mesic woods. "LOW-Mid" drought tolerance identified. 4 may be more appropriate but FAC hydric rating made me extend range to 3 to better balance 8.

8: Flood tolerance rated between low & moderate. Some reports that tree found in swampy areas and occassionally flooded areas. Fact sheet on NRCS Plants database says tolerant of flooding.

DEFENSE (from Distribution Maps)
National Audubon Society (NAS) Map: (NORTH) solid Z6. (SOUTH) Solid Z8 w/ deep penetration into Z9 in FL.

Peterson Field Guide (PFG) Map: (NORTH) Same as NAS. (SOUTH) Same but with possible Z9 occurrence in LA & TX.

7   Sun Strength

3   Shade Strength

DEFENSE
Growth Rate:
Succession:
Soil Range:
Salt Tol.:
Allelopath:
Avg Height:
Max Height:

Click here for Key
6.8 = slightly > Rapid
+.3 = Pioneer Capable
-.4 = 1 Major
+.2 = Moderate
0 = No
+.2 = 95'
+.2 = 155'

DEFENSE
Shade Tol.:
Succession:
Soil Range:
Salt Tol.:
Allelopath:
Avg Height:
Longevity:

Click here for Key
2.5 = Intolerant
0 = Pioneer Capable
-.4 = 1 Major
+.2 = Moderate
0 = No
+.2 = 95'
+.1 = 350 years

TOTAL SCORE (7.3): Substantial height of tree and presence as a frequent pioneer guarantee good sun performance. Suitable value for a very common Southeastern tree.

TOTAL SCORE (2.6): 350 yr lifespan assigned based on Harlow & Harrar statement that tree matures in 200-300 years. Internet site reports 200-400 year lifespan. 3 seems like good value since tree remains persists in woods for a while after pioneer stage.

3   Fire Strength

4   Wind Strength

DEFENSE
Base Score: none-low (Big Tree) = 2-3
Morphology seems to be fairly well adapted to fire but literature indicates tree is somewhat susceptible to fire. Will assign highest of low values for big tree.
Final Value = 3

DEFENSE
Base Score: Very Resistant = 4
Wood is strong & stiff & ratings indicate tree is generally windfirm. Will not assign highest value on account of height of tree.
Final Value = 4