Tulip-poplar
Liriodendron tulipifera
Last reviewed: June 2026
Liriodendron tulipifera is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to eastern North America, blooming with distinctive tulip-shaped flowers in May and June.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Tulip-poplar as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
288"–480" H × 144"–288" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tulip-poplar is a fast-growing native shade tree that can reach 24-40 feet tall with a straight trunk and distinctive tulip-shaped leaves. It produces unique orange and green tulip-like flowers in late spring and turns golden yellow in fall. This tree makes an excellent specimen for larger properties.
Growing Tulip-poplar
Grow Tulip-poplar in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 288 to 480 inches tall and spread 144 to 288 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tulip-poplar is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, street edge, mid zone.
- Very large mature size requires adequate space
- Fast growth may need occasional pruning
Wildlife value
Host plant for Tiger Swallowtail, Promethea Moth, Eastern Tiger Swallowtail.
The flowers attract bees and beetles in May and June, providing nectar when few other trees are blooming. The seeds feed birds and small mammals, while the large canopy provides nesting sites for many bird species.
Common questions
- When does Tulip-poplar bloom?
- Liriodendron tulipifera blooms in May and June, producing distinctive tulip-shaped flowers that are yellow-green with orange markings.
- What pollinators visit Tulip-poplar flowers?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Liriodendron tulipifera, attracted to the nectar-rich flowers.
- Where is Tulip-poplar native?
- Tulip-poplar is native to eastern North America, from southern New England through the Southeast and into the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes region.
- How tall does Tulip-poplar grow?
- Liriodendron tulipifera can reach 70-90 feet tall in cultivation and over 100 feet in ideal forest conditions, making it one of the tallest eastern hardwoods.
- Is Tulip-poplar toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Tulip-poplar as toxic to livestock.
- Is Tulip-poplar HOA-friendly?
- Tulip-poplar is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Tulip-poplar? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz