Tulip Tree/Yellow Poplar


Species
Liriodendron tulipifera
Family
Magnoliaceae
Campus Location
Beside the Temple of Justice and the Legislative building
Native Range
Southeastern U.S.
Description
- Deciduous, growing to over 200 feet tall.
- The tulip tree is a cherished shade tree because of its towering size. It bears greenish flowers in June and the leaves turn golden in autumn.
- No serious susceptibilities known.
- Landscape uses include specimen and parks plantings.
History and significance:
The trunks of tulip trees were used as masts in construction of the first U.S. Navy ships. It is a host plant for tiger and spicebush swallowtail butterflies. The species is the tallest of native eastern U.S. hardwood trees.