Liriodendron tulipifera – American Tulip Tree

Description

This deciduous, large-size tree can reach up to 30 m tall and is widely distributed in the eastern half of the US and so appreciated for its ornamental qualities that it became the state tree for Kentucky, Tennessee and Indiana. It grows a straight trunk topped by a pyramidal crown, bright green, lobed leaves, which turn golden yellow during fall and, very showy, fragrant, tulip-shaped, yellowish-green flowers with an orange band around the base, which tend to develop on the upper branches. The wood of Liriodendron tulipifera is occasionally used for furniture, veneers and pulp. It is hardy to USDA Zone 4. For good germination results, seeds require cold stratification for at least 60 days.