SPECIES COMPARISON · WILMINGTON NC
Longleaf Pine vs Sweet Gum: Cost, Risk & Removal Compared
How these two Cape Fear trees compare on removal cost, hurricane risk, and what they mean for your property.
Longleaf Pine
Pinus palustris
Family: Pinaceae
The most wind-resilient pine in the Southeast — a slow-growing coastal native that rewards patience with structural strength few trees match.
Full Longleaf Pine guide →
Sweet Gum
Liquidambar styraciflua
Family: Altingiaceae
Beloved for its fall color, notorious for its surface roots and spiky seed balls — the Cape Fear tree that most often outlives its welcome.
Full Sweet Gum guide →TREE INTELLIGENCE SNAPSHOT
Longleaf Pine
REMOVAL COST
Moderate
HURRICANE RISK
Very Low
SHADE VALUE
Low
MAINTENANCE
Low
PROPERTY IMPACT
High
Sweet Gum
REMOVAL COST
High
HURRICANE RISK
Moderate
SHADE VALUE
High
MAINTENANCE
Very High
PROPERTY IMPACT
Low
Cost Comparison
| Size | Longleaf Pine | Sweet Gum |
|---|---|---|
| Small (under 30 ft) | $375–$695 | $390–$730 |
| Medium (30–60 ft) | $695–$1,285 | $730–$1,345 |
| Large (60–80 ft) | $1,285–$2,030 | $1,345–$2,130 |
| Very Large | $2,030–$3,750+ | $2,130–$3,920+ |
| Trimming | $375–$960 | $400–$1,050 |
Ranges reflect Cape Fear regional pricing. Final cost depends on access, condition, and site factors.
Key Differences
- ·
Sweet Gum typically costs more to remove.
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Sweet Gum is more likely to fail in a storm.
- ·
Sweet Gum provides more shade value.
- ·
Sweet Gum demands more ongoing maintenance.
- ·
Longleaf Pine tends to add more property value.
Which Should You Be More Concerned About?
Sweet Gum scores higher on both hurricane risk and ongoing maintenance demands in the Cape Fear market. The right call depends on your specific tree's condition, size, and location — upload a photo for an assessment.
Upload a photo for a free assessment →Estimate Your Tree Removal
Estimated Range
$950 – $1,200
Estimated range for Tree Removal · medium tree · Wilmington
Confidence: High · Based on Cape Fear market data
Estimate based on Cape Fear regional pricing data. Final cost confirmed after provider assessment.
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Upload a Photo →Ramon and Miguel · 90 five-star Google reviews · Wilmington, NC