Plant of the Month for May 2026: Liriodendron tulipifera – Tulip Tree

The tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera) is a broad, oval-shaped large tree with decorative, green-brown, cone-shaped fruits. Before these appear, it produces yellow-green, cup-shaped flowers from May to June. The tulip tree also has oval, medium-green leaves. In a sunny, wind-protected location with well-drained, humus-rich, loose, slightly acidic soil, it typically reaches a height of about 35 m and spreads to about 20 m.

Distribution
North America.

Habit
Spreading, oval.

Leaves
The deciduous leaves of the American tulip tree are medium green, oval, alternate, and lobed. The American tulip tree turns a bright golden yellow in the fall.

Flowers
The yellow-green, cup-shaped flowers appear from May to June.

Fruit
The green-brown, cone-shaped fruits of Liriodendron tulipifera are particularly decorative. They appear starting in September.

Root
Liriodendron tulipifera is a taproot plant and, depending on the soil, forms widely spreading, branched roots.

Location
Prefers a sunny, wind-protected location.

Hardiness
The American tulip tree is highly hardy.

Soil
Normal soil.

Uses
Solitary, ornamental tree, park

Water
The plant requires plenty of water. Do not allow the soil to dry out.