Chinese tulip tree (Liriodendron chinense)

Chinese tulip tree

This large, columnar tree gets its common name "Chinese tulip tree" from its nation of origin and the tulip-like appearance of its blossoms. Chinese tulip tree (Liriodendron chinense) has been cultivated as an ornamental tree worldwide; it even gained the Award of Garden Merit by the British Royal Horticultural Society.

Scientific classification

Species

Chinese tulip tree (Liriodendron chinense)

Magnolias, nutmegs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Green, Yellow

Leaf Color

2.5 cm to 8 cm

Flower Size

Brown, Copper

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Yellow

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Rapid

Growth Rate

Images of Chinese tulip tree

Distribution of Chinese tulip tree

Distribution Map

Chinese tulip tree is a plant native to the temperate regions of East Asia. It has a more expansive range, having also been introduced to portions of Central Asia. Additionally, chinese tulip tree is recognized for its ability to be cultivated beyond its indigenous and introduced ranges, in various other regions that provide a compatible environment for its growth.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Chinese tulip tree

Distinct bright green, deeply lobed leaves up to 8 inches (20 cm) long and wide.

Tulip-like flowers with greenish-white petals and orange base, blooming late spring to early summer.

Impressive stature, reaching 60-70 feet (18-21 meters) tall with a spread of 25-35 feet (7.5-10.5 meters).

Fruit appears as dry, scaly, oblong cone-shaped clusters with winged seeds for wind dispersal.

Cup-shaped flowers, about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) long, with olive green petals transitioning to yellow at the base.

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Care Guide for Chinese tulip tree

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Chinese tulip tree thrives in well-drained conditions, requiring infrequent watering, approximately once every three weeks. Native to moderate moisture regions, it demands careful monitoring of soil moisture during its growing season to support flower development.

Fertilize: Fertilize chinese tulip tree in spring using a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) for vigorous growth. Monthly high nitrogen applications during peak growth taper off in fall. Avoid over-fertilization and apply as directed to enhance vigor and flowering. Cease fertilization in winter and prevent runoff.

Pruning: Prune chinese tulip tree in early spring to enhance growth and health by removing dead branches and thinning crowded areas for better air circulation. Young trees benefit from shaping for strong structure, and regular pruning maintains size and improves aesthetics. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease.

Propagation: Grafting chinese tulip tree onto robust rootstocks combines advantageous growth traits. To graft successfully, choose a healthy scion from a mature chinese tulip tree and a compatible, disease-free rootstock. Ensure good contact between vascular tissues to promote nutrient flow, healing, and growth.

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