Tulip Tree
Liriodendron tulipifera · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood
Plant Family
Magnoliaceae
Tree Category
Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Species type (Wild type)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 4 through 9.
About This Tree
A magnificent, fast-growing deciduous tree with a straight trunk, pyramidal shape when young that becomes oval to rounded at maturity. It features distinctive, uniquely shaped leaves and striking cup-shaped flowers resembling tulips.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternately arranged leaves with four distinctive lobes and a truncated or squared-off apex, appearing as if the tip has been cut off. Bright green in summer, turning clear yellow in autumn.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown bark that is relatively smooth on young trees, developing deep furrows and interlacing ridges with pale whitish inner bark in older trees.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Eastern North America, adapted to moist forest soils and widely planted in temperate regions worldwide.
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring, produces tulip-like flowers in late spring (May to June), and drops leaves in autumn after turning a brilliant yellow. Best planted in early spring or autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Requires full sun for optimal growth. Prefers deep, rich, moist, and well-drained soils. Moderate to high water needs when young, though established trees have moderate drought tolerance.
Mature Size
Reaches a mature height of 70 to 90 feet (sometimes up to 150 feet in forests) with a spread of 35 to 50 feet. Fast growth rate with a lifespan of 200 to 300 years.
Special Characteristics
Known for rapid growth, excellent golden-yellow fall foliage, valuable lightweight timber historically used for furniture and canoes, and unique tulip-shaped greenish-yellow and orange flowers.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nectar for hummingbirds and bees from its high-canopy flowers. Seeds are eaten by finches, squirrels, and other small mammals. Serves as a larval host for the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly.