Tulip Tree
Liriodendron tulipifera
A magnificent native shade tree with unique tulip-shaped leaves and stunning orange-yellow tulip-like flowers in late spring. This fast-growing giant is one of the tallest native trees in North America, creating impressive vertical presence in the landscape. The distinctive four-lobed leaves turn brilliant golden-yellow in fall, making it a showstopper in autumn gardens.
Harvest
N/Ad
Days to harvest
Sun
Full sun
Zones
4–9
USDA hardiness
Height
80-120 feet
Planting Timeline
Showing dates for Tulip Tree in USDA Zone 7
All Zone 7 shade-tree →Zone Map
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Tulip Tree · Zones 4–9
Growing Details
Zone-by-Zone Planting Calendar
Complete Growing Guide
Soil: Loam (Silt). Soil pH: Acid (<6.0). Drainage: Good Drainage, Moist, Occasionally Dry. Height: 80 ft. 0 in. - 120 ft. 0 in.. Spread: 30 ft. 0 in. - 60 ft. 0 in.. Spacing: 24-60 feet, more than 60 feet. Growth rate: Rapid. Maintenance: Low. Propagation: Grafting, Seed. Regions: Coastal, Mountains, Piedmont.
Harvesting
The tree produces an aggregate of samaras (2 to 3 inches long, 3/4 of an inch wide) which turn brown and separate at maturity throughout the winter. Fruit is available September-October.
Color: Brown/Copper. Type: Samara. Length: 1-3 inches. Width: < 1 inch.
Harvest time: Fall
Bloom time: Spring, Summer
Advantages
- +Disease resistance: Black Walnut, Deer, Fire, Rabbits, Wet Soil
- +Attracts: Resistant to fire. White-tailed deer browse the foliage and twigs, but this tree is considered to be moderately deer resistant.
- +Fast-growing
- +Low maintenance
Companion Plants
Plant Together
Hostas
Thrives in dappled shade under tulip tree canopy, complementary root systems
Ferns
Natural woodland companions, flourish in filtered light and leaf mulch
Azaleas
Prefer acidic soil created by decomposing tulip tree leaves
Rhododendrons
Benefit from partial shade and acidic leaf litter, shallow roots don't compete
Wild Ginger
Native understory plant that thrives in tulip tree's natural habitat conditions
Trillium
Spring ephemeral that completes cycle before full tree canopy develops
Coral Bells
Shade-tolerant perennial that benefits from protection of tree canopy
Astilbe
Prefers partial shade and moist conditions often found under mature trees
Keep Apart
Black Walnut
Produces juglone toxin that can inhibit tulip tree growth and health
Eucalyptus
Allelopathic compounds suppress growth of nearby trees including tulip trees
Norway Maple
Dense shallow roots and heavy shade compete aggressively for resources
Pests & Disease Resistance
Resistance
Generally disease resistant
Common Pests
Tulip tree scale, aphids, tulip tree weevil
Diseases
Verticillium wilt, canker diseases, sooty mold