Liriodendron tulipifera Fastigiatum
Fastigiate Tulip Poplar
Liriodendron tulipifera ‘Fastigiatum’ (Columnar Tulip Tree) is a fast-growing deciduous tree with a very narrow, tightly fastigiate habit, featuring distinctive four-lobed medium green leaves that turn bright yellow in fall. Tulip-shaped greenish-yellow flowers with orange centers appear on mature trees in late spring to early summer. This cultivar is especially valued for keeping the ornamental character of tulip tree in a much slimmer profile than the species.
Type: Tree (Deciduous)
Mature Size: 15–20' W × 50–60' H
USDA Zones: 5a–9b
Form: Narrow columnar to tightly fastigiate
Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Deep, moist, well-drained soils; moderate water, prefers consistent moisture once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late spring to early summer; short to moderate (about 2–3 weeks on mature trees)
Wildlife: Bees, birds, hummingbirds
Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent for narrow lawns, vertical accents, formal plantings, and tighter residential or commercial spaces. Its tall, slender form makes it useful where a standard tulip tree would be too broad, while still providing bold foliage, tulip-like flowers, and clear yellow fall color.
Care:
Plant in full sun in deep, well-drained soil with room for height. Water regularly during establishment and during dry periods. Minimal pruning is usually needed beyond structural shaping when young. Avoid compacted or persistently dry sites for best performance.
- Plant type
- Deciduous Tree, Flowering evergreen shrub
- Height
- 50-60'
- Width
- 15-20'
- Hardiness zones
- 5–9
- Sunlight
- Full Sun
- Growth rate
- Moderate
- Bloom time
- Late Spring
- Flower color
- White
- Leaf color
- Green
- Fall color
- Yellow
- Attracts
- Bees, Birds, Hummingbirds
- Soil
- Moist well-drained
- Landscape use
- Accent Plant, Corner Accent, Specimen
- Shape
- Columnar, Narrow Upright
- Bark
- Fissured
- Fruit
- Yes
- Deer resistant
- Yes
- Drought tolerant
- No
