Tulip Tree (Liriodendron Tulipifera)
With stunning flowers and unique leaves, the tulip tree is perfect for larger yards where it has space to flourish and can be kept away from areas where salt is spread. Sap and flowers will also drop, so planting away from patios and walkways is recommended.
Brilliant lemon-lime flowers with a splash of orange in their centres develop toward the top of the trees in late spring. After blooming, watch for attractive seedheads that form and last into winter, providing a food source for birds such as goldfinches and cardinals.
Ruby-throated hummingbirds will often visit to sip nectar, while various bees gather nectar and pollen. Eastern tiger swallowtail butterflies use tulip trees as a host plant for their caterpillars; keep an eye out for their stunning yellow and black wings once they’ve transformed.
Tulip trees grow best in well-draining sandy or loamy soils and full sun. While they prefer dry to slightly moist soils, seasonal drought can cause early leaf-drop, so watering during high heat and extreme drought conditions can be beneficial.
Shade and privacy increase quickly as these trees grow rapidly when young. However, the rapid growth and weak branching means these trees benefit from expert pruning to encourage strong branching. Unless simply removing dead or dying material, consulting an arborist for pruning is recommended.
Golden fall colour rounds out the seasonal benefits of this tree. Plant with other tall trees such as sugar maple, basswood or yellow birch, or with smaller trees such as American witch-hazel or alternate-leaved dogwood.