Liriodendron tulipifera | Tulip Tree

Native to north America, the Liriodendron tulipifera is a large, fast-growing and deciduous tree that produces stunning, tulip-shaped, yellow-green flowers from June to July. The flowers appear on mature specimens from about 15-20 + years. They are fragrant and a striking contrast to the green, glossy four-lobed leaves positioned at the base of each flower. Once pollinated, the tree produces elongated, cone-like fruits in autumn just as the leaves turn a vivid golden-yellow to coppery-brown. The Liriodendron tulipifera bark is grey and corky, and forms intricate patterns of vertical ridges with maturity. This is a hardy tree that makes an outstanding focal point in any large gardens and parkland.

Mature Height

20m+

Tree Features

Distinctive large four-lobed leaves that turn yellow and coppery-brown in autumn.

Bark is grey and corky and forms intricate patterns of vertical ridges with maturity.

Mature specimens have large, tulip-shaped flowers in June and July.

Growing Conditions

Grows well in any good moist fertile well-drained soil, but not in heavy clay. Happy in full sun or partial shade.

Season of Interest

Summer - Beautiful tulip-shaped yellow flowers.

Autumn - Leaves give a stunning display of yellow and coppery-brown colour.

Tree Type

Standard, Multistem, Feathered

Growing Locations

Parklands, Large Gardens, Avenues

Evergreen / Deciduous?

Deciduous
Did you know?

The Liriodendron tulipifera is a firm favourite with bees who love its nectar which produces a strong, dark red honey.