Tuliptree

The Tuliptree typically reaches heights between 70 and 90 feet with spreads between 35 and 50 feet. If planted in an open area, the tree will develop a spread out, oval crown, but if planted in a compact area (as it usually is in nature), a conical ovoid crown develops near the top of the tree. For best growth, the tree should be planted in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with full sun.

The alternate, simple LEAVES are 3-8” long and wide. The apex of the leaf is flat with a lobe on either side. Usually the flat base has 2 pointed, short lobes on either side of it as well. The top side of the leaf is a bright green color while the underside is a paler shade of green. In the fall, the leaves change to a wonderful golden yellow color before dropping.

During May and June, perfect greenish-yellow FLOWERS grow near the top of tree. Each flower is 2-3” tall and 1-2 1/2 inches wide, has 6 petals (the inside of the petals is an orange-yellow color), and 3 sepals.

The FRUIT from the Tuliptree comes in the form of cone-like aggregate of samaras. The fruit is 2-3” long and turns brown in October. Throughout the winter, the samaras shed from the aggregate individually.

The straight growing TRUNK is covered in gray, striated BARK. As the tree ages the bark becomes more and more furrowed with interlacing deep ridges.

Native Americans used to use the wood from Tuliptrees to make their canoes and today several carpentry jobs use the wood as trim. Several medicinal uses are also found from this tree. Bees use the flowers in their making of honey and several other animals find use for the fruit.