The Tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) is a popular ornamental and street tree. A member of the Magnoliaceae family, it is native to the Eastern US where it thrives in rich, moist and deep bottomland soils.

Considered one of the tallest hardwoods in the US normally reaches 60-90 feet in height with an Ohio specimen reaching a height of 165 feet! Beautiful green leaves with the appearance of a cats face or a tulip, then green, orange and yellow tulip shaped flowers appear in late spring. A characteristic I've observed, the tree will frequently form three trunks in a triangular array. Fall brings golden brown leaf color. An identifying characteristic during winter are the black remnants of the flowers that are born upright on bare branches.

When installing the tree, it likes full sun and regular water. Take care to protect the bark from sun-scald. Young trees with smooth thin bark can sustain damage from our intense California sun. Use whitewash, a spiral wrap or a sleeve to protect the tender bark of the trunk. Using under-story plantings to shade the trunk is an alternative method.

The wood is soft and easily worked, making it a popular and economical choice for wood working projects.