Description
Liriodendron tulipifera (Tulip Tree) Seeds
Zone: 4 to 9.
Native to eastern North America.
The Tulip tree is one of the largest deciduous trees in the eastern United States. It derives its name its from its cup-shaped flower as well as the tulip outline of its leaves. It blooms in May and June, producing tulip-shaped flowers 2 inches across with greenish-yellow petals and a splash of orange at the base. The Tulip tree is a fast growing tree with an oval canopy. Foliage consists of alternating leaves with 4 to 6 distinctive lobes, a flat base and two ear-like tips. The bark is grey with longitudinal ridges. It likes s sunny site with well-drained loamy soil. The Tulip tree is an excellent shade and ornamental tree for the discriminating gardener and tree enthusiast. The flowers produce nectar that attracts ruby-throated hummingbirds and the seeds are popular with various birds and squirrels.
Size: Height 70 to 90 ft; Width 30 to 50 ft.
Germination Instructions
Note: Tulip trees seeds have a low germination rate, so plant more seeds than you need to get successful results. Viable seeds also exhibit deep dormancy, so be patient.
Stratification: Seeds require about 90 tom 120 days cold stratification at 3° C (37° F) to 5° C (41° F).
- First place seeds in a container with warm water and leave them in the water for about 24 hours.
- Next mix some soiless mixture for starting seeds or sand and vermiculite moisten with water and place it in sandwich bag(s). Note: mixture should be moist not soggy. The bag(s) should not be sealed. Poke holes or leave partially open for air.
- Place the seeds inside the mix and refrigerate for about 90 to 120 days.
- Occasionally check to see if seeds are starting to sprout.
- After the required time plant the seeds 1/4 inch deep in a sheltered spot in the ground or in pots where they can grow. The young saplings can be transplanted to the desired permanent location in the ground after a couple of years when they have grown a few feet.
