A massive native tree with distinctive 4-pointed leaves.

Also called: Yellow Poplar, Tulip Tree, Tulip Poplar

Native status: Native to eastern US

§ Quick facts

SizeHeight 25–45 m
Lifespan250–400 years
OrderMagnoliales
FamilyMagnoliaceae

§ Encyclopedia

Liriodendron tulipifera—known as the tulip tree, American tulip tree, tulipwood, tuliptree, tulip poplar, whitewood, fiddletree, lynn-tree, hickory-poplar, and yellow-poplar—is the North American representative of the two-species genus Liriodendron. It is native to eastern North America from Southern Ontario and possibly southern Quebec west to Illinois, and east to southwestern Massachusetts, then south to central Florida and Louisiana.

Source: Wikipedia — Liriodendron tulipifera Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive tree with unique 4-pointed leaves; tulip-shaped flowers; deeply furrowed bark.

Similar species. Same as Tulip Tree (common alternative name for the same species).

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. N/A — photosynthesis

Behavior. Among the tallest eastern hardwoods. Often confused with true poplars but is a magnolia relative.

§ Range

Eastern North America

§ Habitat

Mature deciduous forests

§ Threats

Forest loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the yellow poplar is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Support mature forest conservation.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • USDA Forest Service Silvics Manual