Liriodendron tulipifera

Tulip Tree

Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree / Tulip Poplar) is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree with a strong, upright pyramidal habit when young, becoming more broadly oval with age. It features distinctive four-lobed, bright green leaves that turn clear yellow in fall. Tulip-shaped greenish-yellow flowers marked with orange appear in late spring to early summer on mature trees, adding unique ornamental interest. This native tree is valued for its stately form, rapid growth, and use as a shade or specimen tree.

Type: Tree (Deciduous)
Mature Size: 35–50' W × 70–90' H
USDA Zones: 4a–9b
Form: Upright pyramidal, becoming broadly oval with age

Light: Full sun
Soil / Water: Deep, fertile, well-drained soils; moderate water, prefers consistent moisture and dislikes prolonged drought
Bloom Time / Length: Late spring to early summer; short to moderate (2–3 weeks)

Wildlife: Bees, butterflies, birds

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent as a shade tree, specimen, or park tree for large landscapes. Its distinctive leaf shape, unusual flowers, tall straight trunk, and golden fall color provide multi-season interest. Best used where it has ample room to mature.

Care:
Plant in deep, well-drained soil with plenty of space for root and canopy development. Water regularly during establishment and during dry periods. Minimal pruning is needed beyond structural shaping when young. Avoid compacted or overly dry sites.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Shade Tree

Height

70-90'

Width

35-50'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

Jasmine

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Vanilla

Attracts

Bees, Birds, Butterflies

Soil

Acidic, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Provide Shade, Specimen, Street Tree

Shape

Broad, Oval Upright

Drought tolerant

No