Mountain Litchi (Liquidambar chinensis) is an attractive deciduous tree native to China, valued for its edible fruit and ornamental qualities. It offers seasonal foliage
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil; allow top 2-3 cm to dry between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperate climates; hardy in USDA zones 7-9. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Low to Moderate
25% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Liquidambar chinensis prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during winter dormancy, but do not let the soil dry out completely.
Prune Liquidambar chinensis to shape the tree, remove dead or damaged branches, and improve air circulation. The best time for major pruning is late winter or early spring before bud break.
Light trimming can be done in summer to maintain shape. Avoid heavy pruning in autumn.
Liquidambar chinensis can be propagated from seeds, which may require stratification. Cuttings taken from semi-hardwood in summer can also be successful. Grafting onto suitable rootstock is another method.
Success rates can vary, and patience is often required.
Younger trees in containers benefit from repotting every 2-3 years in early spring before active growth commences. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
For mature trees, repotting is usually not necessary unless root issues are suspected.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Mountain Litchi (Liquidambar chinensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Altingiaceae |
| Genus | Liquidambar |
| Species | Liquidambar chinensis |
Similar in genus Liquidambar
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
