Liquidambar, commonly known as Sweetgum, Gum, Redgum, Satin-walnut or American Storax, is the only genus in the flowering plant family Altingiaceae of which there are 15 identified species. They were formerly placed in the Hamamelidaceae family. They are native to Southeast and east Asia, the eastern Mediterranean and eastern North America. Both the scientific name Liquidambar and the common name Sweetgum refer to the sweet resinous sap (liquid amber) exuded by the trunk when cut.

Liquidambar formosana, commonly known as the Formosan gum, Chinese Sweet Gum or Formosa Sweet Gum, is a large, deciduous tree native to East Asia, that grows up to 30-40m tall. The leaves are three-lobed, unlike the five to seven lobed leaves of most of the American species of Liquidambar and turn a very attractive red colour in autumn. It makes a handsome bonsai subject. Liquidambar formosana has many medicinal uses. The leaves and roots are used in the treatment of cancerous growths. The stem bark is used in the treatment of fluxes and skin diseases. The fruits are used in the treatment of arthritis, lumbago, oedema, oliguria, and decreased milk production and skin diseases. The resin from the stems is used to treat bleeding boils, carbuncles, toothache and tuberculosis. The trunk of this tree can be used for aromatic resin. The extract of this resin is used to promote blood circulation and relieve pain. Liquidambar formosana is rare in cultivation but in its native regions the wood is used for making tea chests and the leaves to feed silkworms. A 1 to 3 month cold and damp stratification period is required to break dormancy.