Liquidambar
Liquidambar is a genus of trees commonly known as sweetgums. They are native to warm temperate regions of North America, Central America, and parts of Asia. Sweetgums are recognized for their star-shaped leaves, which turn vibrant colors in the fall, ranging from yellow to deep red. The trees can grow up to 100 feet tall and are often used in landscaping for their aesthetic appeal.
These trees produce a distinctive, spiky fruit that contains seeds, which can be a nuisance when they fall to the ground. Liquidambar species are also valued for their resin, known as storax, which has been used in traditional medicine and perfumery. Their wood is durable and often used in furniture and cabinetry.