Sweet Gum Tree (Liquidambar styraciflua) The sweet gum tree can easily be recognized by its leaves (up to seven inches across) which have either five or seven, pointed lobes with fine-toothed edges. Found in the southern states (south of Connecticut on the coast), the tree's gum, which was scraped off after removing the bark, was used earlier in chewing gum and medicines. The wood is used in making furniture and boxes. In spring, clusters of very small flowers appear; and by fall, brown, burred balls of fruits have developed, each yielding winged seeds. Sweet gums of up to 120 high with five foot diameters have been recorded. The photo was taken near Swan Cove along the trail that leads from the Wildlife Loop to the main road (map).

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