The Growth Rate of a Tulip Tree

Tulip trees are members of the magnolia family.

The tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipitera), which is a member of the magnolia family, is also called yellow poplar. Tulip trees are considered rapid growers. Some live to be 300 years old.

Tree Size

In the forest, tulip trees may tower over other hardwoods, sometimes growing as tall as 200 feet. More common are trees in the range of 100 to 150 feet at maturity with trunks up to 5 feet in diameter.

Growth

Dominant tulip tree sprouts average 4.7 feet of growth per year during the first six years, according to the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service. A growth rate of 2.9 feet per year has been noted for tulip trees growing in only moderately favorable conditions. Growth rates slow as trees age, and they drop off dramatically when the trees are between 20 and 30 years of age.

Factors That Influence Growth

Soil conditions play a role in how quickly tulip trees grow. The trees prefer rich, well-drained soil. Although tulip trees may survive in only 3 percent to 10 percent of full sunlight, those trees growing in clearings grow more rapidly.

References

• North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service: Large Native Trees for the Landscape
• Western North Carolina Nature Center: Tulip Tree
• Michigan State University Extension: Tuliptree