Sweetgum

About this plant

Liquidambar styraciflua 'Slender Silhouette' is a refined shade tree lauded for its exceptionally narrow, columnar habit, making it an ideal choice for smaller spaces or as a striking vertical accent in larger gardens. This cultivar maintains the classic beauty of the species, boasting distinct star-shaped leaves that transform into a spectacular display of reds, purples, and oranges in the autumn. Beyond its stunning fall foliage, 'Slender Silhouette' provides excellent summer shade and a unique architectural presence throughout the year. Its upright growth minimizes lateral spread, allowing it to fit effortlessly into urban settings, along driveways, or as a focal point without overwhelming the landscape. Easy to grow and adaptable, this Sweetgum cultivar offers both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, delivering a sophisticated touch to any garden design.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily grown in average, medium moisture, well-drained soils in full sun. Prefers moist, acidic soils but tolerates a wide range of conditions once established. Provide regular watering during dry periods, especially when young. Minimal pruning is typically required, primarily for removing any crossing or damaged branches.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.