I bought this tree based on being told it was a Trident Maple but after inspection it clearly has alternating buds instead of opposite. The leaves have both 3 lobes and 5 lobes but are generally characteristic of a maple tree (see photos) but the alternating bud pattern has left me unable to identify the species. The trunk has a smooth bark, the leaves turn yellow/red in the fall and the tree has aggressive growth all summer. It also loves water and full sun. I’d very much appreciate any help with identification.
Most likely candidate is Liquidamber styraciflua, Sweet Gum
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Thanks for the response! I originally thought that oriental liquidamber was an option too but it’s missing some of the key characteristics of that. It doesn’t have the “wings” on the branches, the sweet smelling sap , nor does it produce any type of fruit (may not be mature enough for fruit yet though). A neighbor has an American sweet gum and the leaves and growth habits don’t really match that either.
It’s very perplexing since I very much like the tree and would love to have more info to properly care for it.
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Liquidambar Formosana. Couple of tree guides confirmed based on your description and pictures. Gorgeous tree btw 
Introduced to Europe 1884.
In USA in 1911 by plant collector Ernest Wilson, during that time he was working for Arnold Arboretum in Boston says one guide. The other has some more info on tree - photo below.
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Thanks so much for your info and pictures! I do love the tree and hope that I can make something great out of it. The description in your reference book does seem to be a good match for the tree. Liquidambar does seem to be the most applicable species. Thanks again.
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