Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree)

Tall and stately, Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree) is a magnificent, deciduous tree of pyramidal habit when young, becoming oval-rounded with age. In late spring to early summer, tulip-shaped, yellowish-green flowers, 3 in. across (7 cm), marked with orange at the base of each petal, appear after the leaves on mature trees (at least 12-15 years old). Handsome at close range, they are borne so high on the tree that they are often missed. They are followed by cone-like fruit that provide winter interest. The glossy foliage of 4-lobed, flat-topped, bright green leaves, up to 8 in. long (20 cm), turns brilliant golden yellow in fall. Tulip Tree makes a superb shade tree or specimen tree for a large landscape. This is a favorite nesting tree for birds and the flowers attract hummingbirds. Native Americans made dugout canoes from the straight, column-like trunks. This is the state tree of Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana.

• Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• Grows up to 60-80 ft. tall (18-24 m) and 30-40 ft. wide (9-12 m)
• A full sun lover, this plant is easily grown in organically rich, moist, acidic, well-drained soils. In general, Tulip Tree grows naturally and well in soils that are moderately moist, well drained, and loose textured. It rarely does well in very wet or very dry situations.
• Perfect as a specimen plant.
• Low maintenance, this beautiful tree is not subject to serious insect or disease issues. Deer and rabbit resistant.
• Propagate by seed or grafting.
• Native to eastern North America.