Sweet Gum 'Slender Silhouette'

'Slender Silhouette' is a remarkable cultivar of the American Sweet Gum, specifically bred for its incredibly narrow, fastigiate growth habit. It grows as a tight column, typically reaching several metres in height while remaining only a metre or so wide, making it one of the best trees for very small gardens or tight urban spaces where verticality is needed. The star-shaped leaves are a glossy green throughout the summer, but it is in autumn that this tree truly shines, turning brilliant shades of burgundy, red, and orange. The bark becomes corky and textured with age, adding winter interest. It is hardy (H6) but requires a sheltered spot away from strong, cold winds to protect the autumn foliage. It performs best in deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Crucially, like most Liquidambars, the best autumn colours are achieved in acidic to neutral soils; it may struggle or show chlorosis on high pH chalky soils.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Moist, well-drained, preferably acidic to neutral.

Hardiness: H6 — down to −20°C.

Flowering: Apr, May.