Over all, mature trees will have a oval or rounded shape, while younger trees will be more pyramidal in shape. Reaching heights of 70′ (21 m) when mature, Sweet Gum trees will have significant branching in symmetrical form. Namely Reishi, Oyster Mushroom, and Tiger Sawgill. Sweet Gum Trees support the growth of several varieties of mushrooms. The seeds contained within the pods of Sweet Gum trees are a favorite of Goldfinches, Nuthatches, and other songbirds. ![]() Damage to young Sweet Gum saplings has been documented to be a major concern in Sweet Gum plantations, primarily from rabbits and mice. Small mammals will damage young Sweet Gum trees. Īdditionally Sweet Gum trees can be attacked by common pests such as Spider Mites, Aphids, caterpillars, etc. As a Fungus, this disease will strengthen with more shade. The primary disease problem Sweet Gum trees can face is a blight caused by drought, Botryosphaeria ribis. Like many trees, Sweet Gum is not without potential diseases. Potential Problems for Sweet Gum Trees Diseases So, I think a lot of the recent criticism of this tree is overblown, or perhaps unwarranted. I’ve also held and squeezed them in my hand, with no adverse issue. Over the years I’ve tested this several times as I take my children for walks. I’ve found that the seed pods tend to crush under my foot and pose no tripping hazard. And I’ve always admired their shape and fall color. Sweet Gum seed pods: Not as dangerous as some media make them out to be…Ī note from my own personal experience: There are several Sweet Gum trees that border the street in our neighborhood. Or, consider buying a ‘bagger’ picker-upper for collecting the pods. So, if you are interested in landscaping with a Sweet Gum tree, perhaps consider growing it a good distance from a driveway, sidewalk or street. The hazard from stepping on a seed pod also extends to pets, particularly getting the pods stuck in the paws of dogs. Additionally if one steps on a pod barefoot, it will hurt. The seed pods can litter sidewalks and driveways, causing a potential tripping hazard. The small, spiny seed pods from the Sweet Gum tree can cause grief to some homeowners and their pets. And, dogs don’t appreciate stepping on the seed pods either. Sweet Gum seed pods will cause pain when stepped on with bare feet. These seed balls are about the size of golf balls, round and covered with spines or spikes. These beautiful star-shaped leaves turn a deep red color in Autumn This makes the Sweetgum an excellent addition to any fall display. Commonly planted as street trees, the primary drawback is the seed balls that they seemingly produce year round.įall color of Sweet Gum trees are red in appearance, and quite dramatic. In optimum conditions Sweet Gum trees will grow up to 2′ per year, making them a potentially fast growing shade tree. Sweet Gum trees will grow large and can make excellent shade trees for a home. This condition can result in the tree toppling over from sway, a condition where growth rings are uneven through the cross section of the tree. Studies have shown that Sweet Gum trees that are shaded laterally, or in the presence of competition will result in height/girth ratios that are too high. If shaded laterally, the tree will add height prematurely in an attempt to obtain more sunlight. Sweet Gum trees should be grown in full sun to ensure a strong trunk that won’t buckle. General characteristics of the Sweet Gum TreeĪlthough it is possible for Sweet Gum trees to grow in partial shade, this should be avoided. Native Range of the Sweet Gum tree is from Texas to NY, and all areas South East of that border.Sweet Gum tree seeds contain an important ingredient for the medicine, Tamiflu.Birds love to pick the seeds out of the seed pods.A large tree with a symmetrical shape, Sweet Gum trees can make great shade trees.Syrup can be made from the sap of Sweet Gum trees.The common name, Sweet Gum comes from the sap that oozes from just under the bark.But let’s start by looking at the typical size / growing requirements of this tree: Sweet Gum Tree Reference Table, Growing Conditions & Facts Common Name In this article I will tell you all the key facts about what a Sweet Gum Tree is, from basic growth characteristics to whether Sweet Gum is a good choice for landscaping your yard. ![]() Sweet Gum trees are large (60-75′) deciduous trees native to North America that are commonly used in landscaping or street trees.
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