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tuliptree
Scientific Name: Liriodendron tulipifera
Family: Magnoliaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)
The tulip tree, scientifically known as Liriodendron, encompasses two species of large deciduous trees belonging to the magnolia family (Magnoliaceae). The trees are widely known by the common name tulip tree or tuliptree.
Liriodendron tulipifera is also known as American tulip tree, tuliptree, tulip poplar, whitewood, fiddle-tree, and yellow poplar.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that the tulip tree is sometimes called "fiddle-tree," which could refer to the shape of its leaves or other parts. Further investigation may be needed if you have pets that ingest plant material.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Liriodendron
- Family: Magnoliaceae (Magnolia family)
- Liriodendron tulipifera is a prominent species.
- Another species mentioned is Liriodendron chinense (Chinese tulip tree).
Distribution and Habitat
- Liriodendron tulipifera is native to eastern North America.
- It is found in the southern parts of Ontario.
- It can be grown in zones 4-9, preferring deep, moist, fertile, and slightly acidic soil.
- Avoid very dry, hot sites.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Characteristically large deciduous trees.
- Vigorous and fast-growing.
- Can reach up to 35 meters tall with a trunk up to 160 centimeters in diameter.
- Typically grows 60-90' tall, but can reach 150' or even 200'.
- Maintains a fairly narrow oval crown.
- Distinctively shaped, attractively lobed leaves that turn butter-yellow in autumn.
- Produces green and orange, tulip-shaped flowers in summer (May-June).
- Flowers are 1-2 inches in size.
Ecological Role
- The African tulip tree (mentioned in the context of Fiji) can become a serious problem and is considered invasive.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The tuliptree scale is a soft scale insect that affects tulip trees. It may be misidentified as magnolia scale.
Quirky Facts
- The tulip tree is the state tree of Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee.
- Kew Gardens' oldest tulip tree dates back to the 1770s.
- The Latin name Liriodendron tulipifera roughly translates to "lily tree bearing tulips."
- The flowers, while tulip-shaped, are often hidden among the foliage in the tree's crown.
Additional Resources
- UC IPM (University of California Integrated Pest Management) provides information about managing pests of tulip trees in gardens and landscapes.