Care of the tree Liriodendron tulipifera or Tulip tree |
The genus Liriodendron, family Magnoliaceae, includes 2 very similar tree species: Liriodendron tulipifera (North America) and Liriodendron chinensis (China). Common names: Tulip tree, American tulip tree, Yellow-poplar, Whitewood. This species is native to North America. They are trees with a rounded crown that reach 30 meters (98.4 feet) high. The intense green leaves have long petioles and are alternate and lobed; in autumn they turn golden with reddish tones. The large, scented flowers (20 cm(7.87") are yellowish-green with an orange center. They bloom in summer. Tulip tree is used as isolated specimens and in streets forming rows. Liriodendron tulipifera needs full sun or semi-shade exposure. If the climate is temperate it grows quickly; in colder climates it grows more slowly. The soil must be light, not calcareous and deep; American tulip tree prefers acidic soil. Water with a bucket of water weekly if the tree is young (4 meters/13.12 feet) and increase to 3 buckets if the tree is large. Yellow-poplar does not need pruning or fertilizers. Liriodendron tulipifera is a very resistant tree to the usual pests and diseases. Whitewood propagates by seeds sown in autumn or by layering in late spring. |
Images of the tree Liriodendron tulipifera or Tulip tree |