Also known as American Tulip Tree · American Whitewood · Bois-Jaune
American tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera) is a majestic deciduous tree with distinctive tulip-shaped flowers and a straight, columnar habit, ideal for large landscapes
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun for best bloom and form, but tolerates partial shade.
Consistent moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply during dry spells.
Well-drained, moist, fertile
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperate climates. Tolerant of a range of temperatures once established.
Moderate
50% intensity
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Liriodendron tulipifera prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply during dry periods to encourage strong root development. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Mature trees are more drought-tolerant but benefit from supplemental watering during extended dry spells.
Prune Liriodendron tulipifera in late winter while dormant to shape the tree and remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Minimal pruning is generally required once established, as it develops a strong central leader.
Avoid heavy pruning as it can lead to weak, adventitious growth.
Propagation is typically done by collecting seeds in autumn and stratifying them for several months before sowing in spring. Grafting is also a viable method for specific cultivars.
Air layering can be attempted, but is less common. Success rates can vary.
Young trees in containers should be repotted every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a container that is slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix. Ensure adequate drainage holes.
Mature trees are generally not repotted and are best planted directly in the ground.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of American Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera)
Where American Tuliptree (Liriodendron tulipifera) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Magnoliaceae |
| Genus | Liriodendron |
| Species | Liriodendron tulipifera |
Similar in genus Liriodendron
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
