Liriodendron tulipifera - Tulip Tree

Liriodendron tulipifera is a remarkable tree with lobed leaves and flowers resembling the shape of a tulip.

This Virginia Tulip Tree is native to the South and East of the United States. This tree, which can live up to 300 years (in Europe), can reach a height of 40 m (131 ft 2 in) at maturity. However, in our gardens, its adult size varies between 15 and 25m (49 ft 2 in and 82 ft) in height.

Its leaves, measuring 10 to 16 cm (3.9 to 6.3 in), are deciduous and consist of 4 lobes with distinct notches that give them a tulip shape. The foliage is yellow-green in spring and summer, turning yellow in autumn.

The flowers of this Liriodendron are solitary and have 9 very light green to white tepals, shaped like a tulip. They are slightly fragrant and bloom from May to July.

The fruits appear after 20 years and are conical, releasing winged achenes measuring 3 to 5 cm (1.2 to 2 in).

The young branches are dark red, then they become dark grey. This Virginia Tulip Tree has fast growth.

This tree prefers rich and well-drained soils and is used as a solitary specimen in a sunny or partially shaded exposure.