Known as the Tulip Tree due to the shape of its flowers Liriodendron tulipifera is a widely grown in Australia and is a deciduous tree originally from North America. However it is from the UK that it was most likely imported into Australia with Ruth Tindale bringing in examples from Hilliers Nursery in the UK.
Greenish yellow flowers in spring and great autumn color along with attractive winter limbs provide year round interest. Both the species and the fastigate forms have fragrant flowers and aromatic bark.
Flowering in late spring to early summer this is a wonderful specimen tree for a larger garden or park situation, the ‘fastigiate form’ can be used to line driveways or as a deciduous screen or shade tree. Wonderful green foliage turning to a good yellow in autumn.
Liriodendron tulipifera varieties
L. tulipifera fastigiata (also listed as fastigiatum) is an upright cultivar, tall growing easily reaching 15m with around a 4m spread.
The species will reach 20m with a 10m spread a much broader crown. Growth rate is moderate to vigorous reaching 20m in 10 – 15 years.
Garden Uses
The species makes a superb specimen tree for larger gardens, parks and public landscapes where its broad canopy can be appreciated. It also provides excellent summer shade while allowing winter sunlight to filter through after leaf fall.
The fastigiate form is ideal for lining driveways, creating formal avenues or providing seasonal screening where space is more limited.
Care
Once established, Liriodendron tulipifera requires relatively little maintenance. Older trees, particularly the fastigiate forms, may benefit from occasional remedial pruning to maintain structure and remove damaged or crossing branches.
Plant in a full sun to part shade position in a deep, fertile, well-drained soil. While reasonably adaptable, the tree performs best where soil moisture is consistent. Young trees will benefit from supplementary watering during extended dry periods until well established.
Although reasonably hardy, providing adequate moisture during prolonged summer heat will help maintain healthy growth and good foliage colour.
- Botanical name: Liriodendron tulipifera
- Common name: Tulip Tree
- Plant type: Deciduous tree
- Height: 20m (species), 15m (‘Fastigiata’)
- Spread: 10m (species), 4m (‘Fastigiata’)
- Position: Full sun to part shade
- Soil: Deep, fertile, well-drained soil
- Flowers: Greenish-yellow with orange markings
- Flowering time: Late spring to early summer
- Autumn colour: Bright yellow
- Uses: Specimen tree, shade tree, avenue planting, parks and large gardens
Where To Buy
"Propagation and Production of Native and Exotic Trees
with Natural Root Systems from 2 to 2,000 lts."
www.njrivett.com.au
WINTER HILL TREE FARM Ph: 02 4878 9193 Fax: 02 4878 9109
NSW Southern Highlands
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www.winterhill.com.au
email ask@plantmark.com.au
One of Australia's largest wholesale trade nurseries. Over 30,000 species available, tubestock to advanced trees, an almost unlimited choice of plants.
www.plantmark.com.au
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
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www.blericktreefarm.com.au