Does a Tulip Tree Like Full Sun?

Liriodendron tulipifera, commonly called the tulip tree or tulip poplar tree, bloom with bright yellow tulip-shaped flowers. Contrary to what the name suggests, tulip trees are not a part of the tulip or even the poplar family; they are part of the magnolia family.

Facts

Tulip tree seedlings require direct sunlight and are intolerant of shade. Seeds grow best on moderately moist, yet well-draining soil.

Conditions

Mature tulip trees thrive best in sun, but will also survive in part shade.

Size

Tulip trees grow very large and provide a lot of shade. Unfortunately, the large size of the tree -- 80 to 120 feet tall and 20 to 40 feet wide -- limits where you can plant the tree. Root systems of trees planted too close to concrete frequently damage parking pads, and the tree is too tall to plant near some houses.

References

• USDA: Plant Fact Sheet -- Tulip Poplar
• University of Texas at Austin: Native Plant Database -- Liriodendron Tulipifera
• North Carolina State University: Liriodendron Tulipifera