MORAINE SWEETGUM

(LIQUIDAMBAR STYRACIFLUA)

 

Location: The labeled tree is behind the No. 16 green.  There are several other Sweetgums which are not of the Moraine subvariety on the course, these trees can be found on No. 1, 3, 5, 10, 11 to name a few.

Tree information: The Sweetgum is a member of the Witch Hazel family. It is known for its vivid fall color in addition to the sweet sap that gives it its name.  The ‘Moraine’ is somewhat more upright than the parent.

Size: commonly 60 to 75’ with large specimens over 100’.

Growth rate: 2 to 3’ per year in moist conditions.

Foliage description: Simple 5-7 lobed leaf with characteristic star shape. It has a gumball-like cone which persists into winter.

   

USDA hardiness zone: 5 to 9.  The Moraine cultivar is reported to be more cold hardy and survives to -25 degrees Fahrenheit.

Provenance: Grown by Handy Nursery in Boring, OR.  Purchased from Birch Creek Garden Company and planted in 1994.