American sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), also known as American storax, hazel pine, bilsted, redgum, satin-walnut, star-leaved gum,alligatorwood, or simply sweetgum, is a deciduous tree in the genus Liquidambar native to warm temperate areas of eastern North America and tropical montane regions of Mexico and Central America. Sweetgum is one of the main valuable forest trees in the southeastern United States, and is a popular ornamental tree in temperate climates. It is recognizable by the combination of its five-pointed star-shaped leaves (similar to maple leaves) and its hard, spiked fruits. It is currently classified in the plant family Altingiaceae, but was formerly considered a member of the Hamamelidaceae. American sweetgum trees are best planted in spring. You will have a low-maintenance tree if you grow the 'Rotundiloba' cultivarof American sweetgum. Sweet Gum Tree Seeds Liquidambar styraciflua American Storax Hazel Pine Bilsted redgum Satin-Walnut Star-leaved Gum alligatorw