Common Names: Tulip Poplar
Scientific Name: Liriodendron tulipifera
 
Size: 3 Gallon
 
Tree Characteristics
Deciduous: Tulip Poplar is a deciduous tree, shedding its leaves in the fall.
Size: Typically grows to a height of 60-100 ft., with some specimens reaching over 150 ft.
Leaves: The leaves are large, four-lobed, and have a distinctive tulip-like shape with bright green color that turns yellow in the fall.
Bark: The bark is grayish-brown with a smooth texture when young, becoming furrowed with age.
Flowers: Produces large, tulip-shaped flowers in late spring to early summer. Flowers are striped yellow, orange, and light greenish yellow, and are slightly fragrant.
Fruit: Bears cone-like, winged seed clusters that mature in the fall.
Host Plant: Host for tiger swallowtail butterfly caterpillars, only host for tuliptree silkmoth caterpillars.
Growth: fast, 2+ ft/year
Life: 200-250 years, with some individuals reaching 300+ years.
 
Growing Conditions
Water Use: Medium
Light Requirement: Full Sun
Soil Moisture: Well-drained
 
Ecological Benefits
Tulip Poplar is a significant tree in Maryland’s ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various wildlife. Its large, tulip-shaped flowers attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The tree’s seeds and leaves offer food sources for birds and small mammals. Its towering presence adds structural diversity to forests and landscapes. Tulip poplar is a relative of magnolia trees. As a native species, Tulip Poplar supports the ecological health and biodiversity of Maryland's natural environments.