Trees

Liriodendron tulipifera

Tulip tree

Tulip tree. Leafy shoot with fat, terminal flower bud.

A large native canopy tree with distinctive four-lobed leaves, greenish-yellow tulip-shaped flowers and golden fall color. Mature trees need considerable space above and below ground. Best suited to broad lawns or woodland settings, where its height and wildlife value can be appreciated.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun
Size: Height: 80 ft.–120 ft. · Width: 30 ft.–60 ft.
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA zones 4–9

Sizes & prices

#7$134.99
#15Tulip Poplar$189.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Shade tree; Ornamental specimen
Form: Oval; Pyramidal; Rounded
Growth rate: Rapid
Major issues: Aphid honeydew, scale and Verticillium wilt may occur; branches can break in strong wind or ice.
Fruit / litter: Cone-like clusters release winged seeds; leaves, flowers and twigs also fall.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Listed as resistant; protect young trees from browsing and antler rubbing.
Drought: Sensitive to drought and heat; dry summers can cause yellowing and premature leaf drop.
Wet soil: Tolerates occasional wetness; this does not imply permanent flooding tolerance.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Attracts: Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Native range

Native range / parentage: Southern Ontario to North Central and Eastern United States Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Species native to Kentucky.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous

Growing & care

Pruning: Establish one strong leader and well-spaced scaffold branches while young; assess weak or damaged limbs after storms.
Soil: Moist, well-drained; brief dry periods tolerated

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: Cathy Dewitt · CC BY 4.0

Image notes: Tulip tree. Leafy shoot with fat, terminal flower bud. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.