Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)

Large trees

• Maximum height
  100 feet
• Relative growth rate
  Good
• Freedom from insect pests
  Good
• Freedom from disease problems
  Good
• Resistance to storm damage
  Poor
• Will grow on poorly drained soil
  Poor
• Will grow in hot, dry areas
  Very poor
• Easy to transplant
  Poor
• Withstands city conditions
  Good

Tulip tree needs a deep, fertile soil to develop properly. It is often difficult to establish, but once established it will grow rapidly and develop into a large tree. It is much too large for the average-sized yard and should be planted only where it has ample growing space.

The light green tulip-shaped flowers are produced in May. After the fruit breaks open in the fall to release its seed, a tulip-shaped portion of the fruit remains on the tree to add interest during the winter. Tulip tree has few serious insect of disease problems. However, the leaves may turn yellow and drop during hot, dry periods of midsummer.