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November 2025While walking down a sidewalk in the spring, you may spot a whimsical trail of bright yellow or orange petals. This is an early sign of one of North America’s most anticipated seasonal tree displays. Tulip Poplar seedlings grow into trees admired for their incredibly showy, warm-colored flowers, captivating all who witness their stately beauty. It is known to be one of the tallest native trees in the entire continent.
Family: Magnoliaceae
Light Requirement:Â Full Sun
Water Needs: Moderate
Height: 70-100 ft.
Spread: 30-50 ft.
Growth Rate: Fast
Bloom Time: Late Spring – Early Summer
Flower Color: Green, yellow, orange
Wildlife Value: Highly valuable for pollinators, provides shelter for small mammals
Around May, the iconic blooms poke out high up on the canopy like a hidden treasure. True to its name, the blooms sit upright similar to tulips. This upright flower position is advantageous for attracting pollinators, who rely on easy access for nectar.
This tree requires as much sun as possible for optimal flower production and will not perform well in the shade. It can be expected to grow a few feet every year, transforming before your eyes. The deep green foliage stuns in the summer and turns to a deep golden color at the end of the season. Native butterfly species prefer to host their larva on the branches of this tree, further cementing itself as a keystone in a native landscape.
As a fast grower, this tall tree can easily be implemented into the landscape with very low maintenance needs. It works quick as a windbreaker or shade tree, providing thick cover for a yard or other plants. As Tulip Poplar Seedlings, the tree is at its most tender and requires some guarding from drought and excessive wind. Because of the potential for grand height and width, it is important to select a large enough planting site that allows this tree to stretch out. It requires consistent moisture in well-drained soil.
One of the most distinctive features of Tulip Poplar Seedlings is the unique foliage. The leaves are four-lobed and a bit square-shaped. In fact, the leaf is like the silhouette of a tulip blossom!
Bloom Season
Spring
Bloom/Foliage Color
Yellow
Height at Maturity
Over 25 Feet
Care
Tulip Poplar seedlings need consistent moisture, especially during their first few years. Water them regularly, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. In early spring, fertilize with a proportional, slow-release fertilizer. Prune to maintain a central leader and remove any damaged branches.
Plant Reproduction
Tulip Poplar seedlings spread via wind-dispersed seeds, forming new growth
Plant seedlings in early spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Choose a well-drained site with the proper sunlight for the tree species. Dig a hole that's deep and wide enough to support but not hamper the root system without bending or crowding the roots. Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the root collar (where the roots meet the stem) is level with or slightly above the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil, and pack it around the roots to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting and keep the moisture consistent, especially during the first few years, to help the roots establish. Put a 2-4 inch layer of mulch around the base, but keep it away from the trunk to retain moisture and prevent weed growth. Protect the seedlings from pests and physical damage with suitable guards or fencing. Tree seedlings will thrive and grow into strong, healthy trees with proper care.
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Caring Tips
Each box contains detailed care instructions and information about your product. But here's the basics.
Care Tips
Tulip Poplar seedlings need consistent moisture, especially during their first few years. Water them regularly, ensuring the soil is evenly moist but not soggy. In early spring, fertilize with a proportional, slow-release fertilizer. Prune to maintain a central leader and remove any damaged branches.
Light Requirements
Tulip Poplar Seedlings thrive in complete sun to little shade, with at least 6 hours of explicit sunlight daily. They prefer well-drained soil and open areas where they can grow tall and straight and reach their full potential.
Hardy Planting Zones
3 • 4 • 5 • 6 • 7 • 8
