General Information
Status in Florida: Native (in the northern parts of the state)
Native Habitat: Moist, well-drained soils in hardwood forests, floodplains, and riverbanks
Native States: Eastern United States, from New York to Florida, and west to Texas and Iowa
Growing Zones: 4-9
Size at Maturity: 60-90 feet tall, 30-50 feet wide
Phenology: Deciduous
Life Cycle: Perennial
Growth Rate: Fast
Growth Habit: Tall, upright, pyramidal with a straight trunk
Bloom Season: Late spring to early summer
Bloom Color: Yellow with orange markings (tulip-shaped flowers)
 
Growth Conditions
Sunlight Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Texture: Well-drained, moist, rich soils
Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral
Moisture Requirements: Moist
Tolerance to Salt Spray: Low
Keystone Plant: Yes
 
Landscape Considerations
Recommended Landscape Uses: Large-scale shade tree, specimen tree, woodland garden, park tree
Maintenance Tips: Prune only when necessary to maintain structure; remove deadwood
Considerations: Needs space to reach maturity; avoid planting near power lines due to height
Hurricane Wind Resistant: Moderate
Erosion Control: Yes
Nitrogen Fixing: No
 
Other Information
Edible: No
Pet Safe: Yes
Deer and Rabbit Resistance: Yes
Historical Medicinal Uses: Used traditionally for its bark and wood for making medicinal preparations, especially as a sedative and anti-inflammatory
Florida Native Companion Plant: American Holly (Ilex opaca), Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), Wild Ginger (Asarum canadense)
Wildlife Benefit: Provides habitat and food for wildlife, particularly for birds and small mammals.  The seeds are a favorite food source for squirrels and birds.
Caterpillar Host Plant: Yes, for the Tulip Tree Beauty moth (Epimecis hortaria). Also the larval host for eastern tiger swallowtail (Papilio glaucus).
Propagation: Seed, cutting
 
Tulip Poplar is a majestic tree that provides a tall, straight presence in landscapes, making it an excellent choice for large yards and parks. Its beautiful tulip-shaped blooms attract pollinators, and its large stature offers substantial shade once mature. This tree grows rapidly and provides a rich, native habitat for birds and insects. However, it requires plenty of space to thrive and should be planted away from areas where its large size could cause obstruction.