tulip-tree

Plant Type

Large Tree (greater than 25 ft)

Life Cycle

Perennial

Typical Size

80-120 ft. tall
30-60 ft. wide

Inolerant of

Dry Soil, Poorly Drained Soil

Plant Propagation Notes

Seed requires cold moist stratification for 60-90 days. Germination rates may still be low.

Plant Planting Notes

These trees are sensitive to heat, drought, and soil compaction. Root systems are shallow, limiting what can be planted under the drip line.

Plants/Diseases

Numerous insects may feed on the foliage including aphids and scale. Additionally, a number of pathogens effect this tree including verticillium wilt, mold, powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker.

Wildlife Benefits

Nectar/pollen source for pollinating insects, Host plant for butterfly larvae

Leaves

Leaves alternate, orbicular with four lobes and entire margins.

Flowers

The large flowers are mainly greenish yellow with orange markings, cup-shaped and fragrant with 6 petals.

Fruit

Samara

Bark

Young growth is smooth, but develops deep furrows with age.

Toxicity

No known toxicity.

Ethnobotanical Use

Used for woodworking.

USDA Hardiness Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Light Exposure

Full Sun

Soil Moisture

Medium, Moist

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

Acidic (less than 6.0)

Native in South Carolina?

Yes

Plant Native Habitat

Grows to 1500m elevation in cove and mesic forests in the mountains. Typically found in bottomland forests and swamps in the coastal plains.

Global Conservation Status (NatureServe)

Secure (G5)

Federal Conservation Status (USFWS)

Not Listed

Distribution Notes

Common throughout South Carolina.

Subspecies

A new variety of Liriodendron tulipifera is currently under study.