Formosan Gum, Chinese Sweet Gum, Formosa Sweet Gum

Liquidambar formosana

Physical Characteristics

Liquidambar formosana is a deciduous Tree growing to 12 m (39ft) by 10 m (32ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 7 and is not frost tender. It is in flower in May, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Bees. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - Central and southern China from Taiwan to south-west Sichuan.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Secondary;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antiphlogistic Antirheumatic Astringent Balsamic Cancer Haemostatic Odontalgic Skin The leaves are used in the treatment of cancerous growths[218]. The stem is anodyne, antiphlogistic, astringent, balsamic and haemostatic[178, 218]. The resin from the stems is mixed with Rhamnus crenata fruits and used as a suppository for constipation[218]. The stem bark is used in the treatment of fluxes and skin diseases[218]. The fruits are antirheumatic, diuretic and galactogogue[176]. They are used in the treatment of arthritis, lumbago, oedema, oliguria, decreased milk production and skin diseases[176, 218]. The root is used in the treatment of cancerous growths[218]. The resin from the stems is used to treat bleeding boils, carbuncles, toothache and tuberculosis[218].

Known Hazards

None known