Today, I want to highlight a truly special tree I discovered at one of the world’s most extraordinary tree nurseries: the Liquidambar, also known as the Sweetgum tree.
Nestled within Hamburg’s bustling metropolis lies a treasure: the Lorenz von Ehren tree nursery. Uniquely located in the heart of a major city, this is a rare gem for landscape architects. Its central location offers unparalleled access to some of the finest specimens, ensuring we have exceptional trees at our fingertips for our projects. The best of nature is right in our backyard!
Among the many stunning options, my choice today is the Liquidambar, a tree native to North America. Its German name, Amberbaum, hints at its most captivating feature—its vivid and dynamic autumn foliage. The cultivar I selected, aptly named ‘Oktoberglut’ (October Glow), provides a glimpse of the brilliance this tree brings.
The leaves of the Liquidambar undergo a mesmerizing transformation. Beginning in green, they shift to yellow, deep purple, fiery red, and finally back to purple before falling. It’s as if the tree paints its own masterpiece, capturing the essence of nature’s beauty in every shade.
Beyond its stunning aesthetics, the Liquidambar excels in resilience. Its slow growth makes it a more costly investment initially, but it proves invaluable over time—especially in urban settings. As a “climate tree,” it thrives despite urban challenges such as heat, pollution, and drought.
• Parks: A centerpiece for green spaces.
• Street Lining: Adds beauty and function to cityscapes.
• Private Gardens: A showstopper year-round.
In summer, its dense, lush green canopy provides welcome shade, making it as practical as it is beautiful.
The Liquidambar is more than a tree—it’s a storyteller. It narrates the passage of seasons, showcases the spectrum of life’s colors, and celebrates the quiet splendor of nature’s pace. Witnessing its full autumn display is an unforgettable experience.
This is a tree with a bright future in urban landscapes, one that embodies resilience, beauty, and sustainability—qualities we all need in our cities and our lives.
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