Liquidambar styracifula, or sweetgum, is native to regions just outside Ontario, and thrives in full sun and moist, well-drained soils, and is adaptable to various soil types, with the exception of alkaline soils. Its sap has been used for products like chewing gum, perfume, and medicines. Sweetgum is a great choice for parks, offering shade and versatility, as it is resistant to deer and rabbits, and tolerant of salt and black walnut toxicity. Though the tree sheds spiky seed pods in fall and winter, making it challenging to maintain near sidewalks, the cultivar 'cherokee' can reduce seed pod litter.