Trees to Consider: Tuliptree

Tuliptree is a fast-growing tree with bright green leaves that resemble tulip flowers in profile and turn golden yellow in fall. It has greenish-yellow flowers that are located high in the tree and its stems are aromatic. George Washington planted many in his gardens at Mount Vernon. It was also used by Daniel Boone for his famous 60’ dugout canoe.

Latin Name: Liriodendron tulipifera

Common Name(s): Tuliptree, Tulip Poplar

Tree Type: A tall, sturdy tree growing in an oval shape.

Sun and Water Requirements:  Full sun is preferred, at least six hours of direct sun, with moist, sandy, acidic, loamy, well-drained and clay soils.

Expected growth: A fast grower, its mature size reaches 70’- 90’ with a spread of 40’, growing as much as 2’ in one year.

Foliage: Bright green tulip shaped leaves with attractive greenish-yellow flowers.

Landscape Value: Tuliptrees are both a shade tree and an ornamental tree. Its leaves are attractive with their signature shape, and the flowers extend into the canopy in spring, where they can attract hummingbirds with their nectar. The seeds, which persist into winter provide food for birds such as cardinals, finches and quail, and for squirrels and rabbits.