Tuliptree Liriodendron tulipifera 'Fastigiatum'

Water

For the Tulip Tree, the watering needs vary by season. During the growing season, it's essential to maintain consistently moist soil, so watering deeply once a week is a standard recommendation, providing approximately 1.5 to 2.5 gallons of water depending on the size and age of the tree. In the absence of rainfall, increase the frequency to twice a week. During the winter months, when the tree is dormant, you can reduce the watering significantly, though it's still important to prevent the soil from completely drying out. Keep in mind that young trees require more frequent watering until they are established.

Light

The Tulip Tree thrives best in full sun conditions, meaning it requires at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. Planting in a spot that is open to the south or west will ensure that the tree receives ample sunlight, which is vital for its growth and the development of its distinctive flowers. However, it will tolerate light shade but may produce fewer flowers and have a less-robust form.

Temperature

The Tulip Tree is quite adaptable but prefers temperate climates. It can withstand a maximum temperature of around 100°F in summer and a minimum temperature of about -20°F in winter. The ideal temperature range for this tree's growth and health lies between 60°F and 70°F. Young trees may need additional protection from extreme cold in their first few years.

Pruning

Pruning the Tulip Tree is essential for removing dead or damaged branches, maintaining a desired shape, and promoting vigorous growth. The best time to prune is in the dormant season, late fall or winter, to minimize stress on the tree and reduce the risk of disease. Prune sparingly, as this tree does not require extensive shaping, focusing only on problematic branches. It's generally recommended to prune annually or as needed to remove any problematic growth.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Tulip Tree prefers a well-drained, fertile soil with ample organic matter. A mix of loam, compost, and a small amount of sand for drainage would be ideal with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5.

Repotting

Tulip Trees are typically large and do not lend themselves to frequent repotting. Young trees may be repotted biennially, but mature specimens are better off being top-dressed instead of repotted.

Humidity & Misting

Tulip Trees can tolerate a range of humidity levels but prefer average to high humidity, mirroring their native woodland environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  It's a large tree, not suited for indoor growth.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, moist soil, space to grow; not ideal for small gardens.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The life of the Tulip Tree 'Fastigiatum' begins with germination, where its seed sprouts in well-drained soil under the right conditions of warmth and moisture, typically in spring. After the seedling emerges, it enters the juvenile growth phase, developing into a young tree with a more erect and narrow form than the typical Tulip Tree, featuring distinctive lobed leaves and a straight, columnar growth habit. As it matures, the Tulip Tree 'Fastigiatum' enters the reproductive stage, producing unique tulip-like flowers in late spring to early summer, which are yellowish-green with a splash of orange at the base, followed by dry, cone-shaped fruit that disperses seeds. Throughout its life, the tree experiences seasonal growth cycles, with active growth in spring and summer, and dormancy in fall and winter. After many years, potentially exceeding a century, the tree reaches its final stage of life and will eventually succumb to environmental stresses, diseases, or old age, at which point it decomposes and returns nutrients to the soil.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Tulip Poplar 'Fastigiatum' is best propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer. The procedure involves selecting a healthy branch that is not flowering and cutting a 4 to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) length, making sure there are at least two sets of leaves. The bottom set of leaves is removed, and the cut end is dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and in a warm environment with indirect light until roots develop, which typically takes several weeks. Some growers may also choose to cover the cutting with a plastic bag to retain humidity, but care must be taken to avoid fungal growth. Once rooted, the new Tulip Poplar can be hardened off and eventually transplanted outside.