Alligator-wood
Liquidambar styraciflua
Last reviewed: June 2026
Liquidambar styraciflua is a native deciduous tree found across the southeastern and eastern United States. It blooms in May and June, attracting bees and beetles as pollinators.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Alligator-wood as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
240"–600" H × 180"–360" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, FL and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
American Sweetgum is a large native shade tree known for its distinctive star-shaped leaves and spiky seed balls. It provides excellent fall color ranging from yellow to deep red and purple. This adaptable tree tolerates various soil conditions and urban environments well.
Growing Alligator-wood
Grow Alligator-wood in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 600 inches tall and spread 180 to 360 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alligator-wood is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Spiky seed balls can be considered messy and may create cleanup issues
- Very large mature size may not suit smaller residential lots
- Seed balls can be a foot traffic hazard
Wildlife value
Host plant for tiger swallowtail, viceroy butterfly.
Supports bees and beetles with its spring flowers, though blooms are not particularly showy. The tree also provides nesting sites for birds and its seeds feed various wildlife species.
Common questions
- Where is Liquidambar styraciflua native to?
- Liquidambar styraciflua is native to 22 states across the southeastern and eastern United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.
- When does Liquidambar styraciflua bloom?
- Liquidambar styraciflua blooms during May and June, producing small flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Liquidambar styraciflua?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators that visit Liquidambar styraciflua flowers during its blooming period.
- Is Alligator-wood toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Alligator-wood as toxic to livestock.
- Is Alligator-wood HOA-friendly?
- Alligator-wood is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Alligator-wood? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz