Liriodendron

This fast-growing, long-lived tree is arguably among the most spectacular representatives of the whole North American flora. Considered the tallest deciduous tree of eastern and central North America, forest specimens are capable of attaining heights of up to 200' and trunk diameters of up to 8'. Typically growing tall and straight, it is said that that forest tulip trees will sometimes have arrow-straight trunks free of branches for the first 80' of their height. Grown in the open, tulip tree retains its lower branches, developing a broad, upright, oval crown. The shape of the leaves, which could be described as being somewhat like the silhouette of a tulip flower, is unique; these leaves are quite unlike those of any other native tree. The leaves also have an iridescent quality, as do those of some of its close relatives, the Magnolias. In late spring tulip trees bear beautiful, showy, bright yellow-green, tulip-shaped flowers with red centers. These flowers depend upon bees for cross-pollination; tulip tree honey is considered of excellent quality. The flowers are also a nectar source for hummingbirds. Trees may not begin to flower until they are 10-20 years old, but once they start may continue flowering for hundreds of years. In order to make it possible to observe the flowers close up, the trees should be allowed to retain their lower branches. The cone-like fruits, which ripen in fall, bear seeds that are eaten by songbirds, especially purple finches and cardinals. Autumn foliage color is a bright golden yellow. The stems and roots of tulip tree emit a strong, pleasant, spicy aroma when bruised. A tea brewed from the bark has been used medicinally. Tulip tree is a host for larvae of the tiger swallowtail and spicebush swallowtail butterflies. This it not a tree for small areas, but where space permits it is worthy of serious consideration. In addition to all of its other attributes, it makes a fine shade tree. Prefers moist, rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soil and full sun.