Bare Root Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)

Hardy, deciduous, large, North American tree
Description: Handsome tulip-shaped, yellow, orange and green flowers in spring; golden yellow fall color
Habit: Grows 100 feet high by 80 feet wide
Culture: Prefers full sun to partial shade and humus-rich, woodland loam
Hardiness: Cold hardy to USDA Zone 4
Origin: Eastern North America
Attributes: Fall color; Deer resistant
Jefferson-documented

Thomas Jefferson described the Tulip Tree as “the Juno of our Groves” when he forwarded seeds to a Parisian friend, Madame de Tessé, in 1805. Two years later he noted planting a young tree west of the house at Monticello. Researchers always "considered" the tree on the southwest side original to Jefferson's lifetime because of a Garden Book notation on April 16, 1807: “planted 1. Laurodendron in margin of S. W. shrub circle from the nursery.” A 120-foot tall Liriodendron tulipifera specimen grew at Monticello in this general location until it was removed due to safety issues in 2008. However, with the lack of physical and documentary evidence, the tree's true age and status as an “original tree” will remain a mystery.

The Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), also called Yellow or Tulip Poplar (“Liriodendron” or “Common Poplar” by Jefferson), is both a majestic and graceful tree and is especially treasured in European parks and gardens, where it was first described in 1687.

Its dramatic autumn color, ornamental blossoms, distinctive foliage, and quick growth lend this species the mythological glory Jefferson justly admired.

This tree will ship bare root. Liriodendron tulipifera tree is approximately 2-3' tall.

Bare root planting tips:

~ If you can't plant immediately, store your plant in a cool location and keep the roots moist or pot in a container with a nursery potting mix from your local garden center.
~ Before planting, let the roots soak for several hours as you prepare the site. You'll want to dig a large enough hole so the root mass can spread out and the plant is at the same soil level as when it was growing in the nursery.
~ Once planted, water it in well and wait a month before fertilizing. Mulching will help to maintain moisture and raise soil temperatures for faster growth.