Tulip tree or Liriodendron tulipifera is a majestic tree native to North America. It has very decorative deciduous foliage, distinctively lobed, sometimes variegated depending on variety, and bears tulip-shaped flowers from May to July, pale green to pale yellow in colour. Discover in this tutorial all our advice on where, when and how to plant a Tulip tree in the garden.
For full details on cultivation, consult our complete factsheet: "Tulip tree, Liriodendron: planting, care".
Where to plant a Tulip tree?
The Tulip tree, with its majestic habit reaching 20 to 30 metres in height and a spread of 15 to 20 metres at maturity, needs plenty of space to develop fully. Avoid planting too close to house or building. It is particularly striking when planted as a specimen, for example in middle of a short grass meadow, in a large park or garden. There is however a fastigiate variety, with a narrow, very upright habit, Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiata', as well as a compact-habit variety, Liriodendron 'Edward Gursztyn'®, which does not exceed 4 m in height for 2 m of spread. These two varieties therefore occupy much less space and are suitable for small gardens.
Liriodendron prefers rich, light, deep, cool and well-drained soil. It tolerates calcareous soils and waterlogging poorly. It thrives in non-scorching sun or partial shade. Ideally choose a location that receives direct sunlight for at least part of the day. Fully hardy, it withstands down to -30 °C, even -35 °C, however it will appreciate a position sheltered from late frosts, which can damage flower buds, and from strong winds that might break branches. Choose planting site carefully: once established, it does not like to be moved.
When to plant?
Best time to plant your Tulip tree is autumn (September–October) or early spring (March–April), avoiding periods of frost or severe heat. Autumn has advantage of allowing tree to establish in new environment while benefiting from natural moisture. However in cold regions favour planting in early spring.
How to plant a Tulip tree?
- Start by placing the root ball in a tub filled with water to rehydrate it.
- Then dig a planting hole: it should be at least twice the size of the root ball.
- Add some well-rotted compost or manure, mixing it with planting soil. You can also add coarse sand or gravel to improve drainage. If soil is calcareous, we recommend adding some heather soil.
- Gently remove the tree from its pot, then lightly tease underside of the root ball to loosen roots and encourage them to grow outwards.
- Place the tree in centre of the planting hole ensuring top of the root ball is level with soil.
- Hold tree upright and secure it to a stake.
- Backfill hole with a mix of soil and compost, then firm lightly.
- Once planted, water thoroughly to hydrate roots and help settle soil around tree. A good initial watering is crucial for establishment.
- Apply a 5 to 10 cm layer of organic mulch around base of tree. This will help keep soil cool longer and limit weed growth.
- Continue watering during two summers following planting, while tree develops its root system and becomes more drought-resistant.
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