American Sweetgums could be mistaken for one of the Maple species because they have pointed, five-lobed leaves.
But their seeds are held in balls, unlike the winged 'samara' or helicopters of the Maples.
Sweetgums have great autumn colours which you can see very late into the season and some trees may retain a few leaves right through the winter in mild years.
Trees provide more benefits the older and larger they are.
Trees provide more benefits the older and larger they are.
Elsewhere on Hounslow Greentalk
Check out our Tree of the Month. Create your own tree-lined walk! Let your friends know.
As the summer draws to a close, there are one or two tree species that actually start flowering.
One of these is the Japanese Pagoda Tree which comes into flower in late August and can keep going until the start of October. The trouble with this species is that it needs a warm summer to ensure good flowering, and this year, in London at least, it's been a bit disappointing. So while it's warmed up in September, it might not be enough to ensure we see many flowers this year. The best thing to do then, is make a note of where your nearest tree is, hope for a warmer summer in 2022, and come back next September!
Do you know that you can adopt a tree near you for free?
