Common Name: sweetgum
Scientific Name: Liquidambar styraciflua
Category: Historic tree
Comments: This tree is one af a very few trees that was grown from a seed that was part of a scientific experiment that involved former Smokejumper and later Astronaut Roosa taking 5 tree species into orbit aboard a spacecraft to determine how such factors as radiation might impact them. The trees were planted in Forest Service nurseries and about 2 or three trees were given to each state. I was Deputy Chief of the Forest Service in 1978 (later Chief) and a rather small seedling was given to me. It grew quite well and is now quite healthy.
No picture has been submitted.
Best time to photograph: Early fall in the morning
Nominator: R. Max Peterson
This tree is not on public or publicly accessible property. The owner's name, address, and the exact location of the tree are not displayed to protect the privacy of these individuals. If you are the owner and wish to make this information public, please let us know.
County/City: Loudoun