Tulip Tree/Yellow Poplar

Tulip tree/yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)
Tulip tree/yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera)

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.

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