Liquidambar

CopalmeDAmerique

Liquidambar acalycina (2)

蕈樹(山荔枝) Altingia chinensis -香港城門郊野公園 Shing Mun Country Park, Hong Kong- (9219891159)

Sedgwickia cerasifolia Griffith 1836

Chinese Sweet Gum (Liquidambar formosana) (21652161393)

Altingia gracilipes 29-2837

Liquidambar, commonly known as sweetgum, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Altingiaceae. The name Liquidambar was first introduced by Linnaeus in 1753, derived from the Latin liquidus (liquid) and ambar (amber), referring to the fragrant resin produced by the tree's sap. This genus is native to warm temperate and tropical regions of the Americas and Asia. Among the species in this genus, Liquidambar styraciflua, the American sweetgum, is the most widely known and cultivated.

Description

Liquidambar trees are deciduous, growing to 25–40 meters (80–130 feet) tall, with a straight trunk and a conical or rounded crown. The leaves are palmately lobed, 7–19 cm (3–7.5 inches) long and broad, with a serrated margin and a glossy, vibrant green color that turns to brilliant reds, oranges, and purples in autumn. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with male and female flowers on separate trees (dioecious) or on the same tree (monoecious). The fruit is a woody multiple capsule, 2–4 cm (0.79–1.57 inches) in diameter, containing numerous seeds. Each capsule opens at maturity to release the seeds, which are small and winged, aiding in wind dispersal.

Habitat and Distribution

Liquidambar species are found in a variety of habitats from moist, lowland areas to mountains, indicating their adaptability to different environmental conditions. The American sweetgum, for example, is native to the southeastern United States and parts of Mexico, extending southward to Central America. Other species, such as Liquidambar orientalis, the Oriental sweetgum, are native to the eastern Mediterranean region, particularly in Turkey.

Uses

The wood of Liquidambar trees is hard and heavy, making it valuable for furniture, flooring, and veneers. It is often marketed under the name "satin-walnut" in the United States. The resin, or storax, obtained from the bark of certain species, especially Liquidambar orientalis, has been used in traditional medicine and as a perfume base. The trees are also popular in horticulture as ornamental trees for their striking fall foliage and the shade they provide.

Conservation

While some species of Liquidambar are common and not considered at risk, habitat destruction and over-exploitation for timber and resin have led to declines in certain areas. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting natural habitats and promoting sustainable harvesting practices to ensure the survival of these species.

Species

The genus Liquidambar contains several species, including:

• Liquidambar styraciflua – American sweetgum
• Liquidambar orientalis – Oriental sweetgum
• Liquidambar formosana – Chinese sweetgum
• Liquidambar acalycina – Chang's sweetgum

See Also

• Deciduous trees
• Resin
• Horticulture
• Conservation biology