The Tulip Tree- or yellow poplar, is a large, stately, deciduous tree of eastern North America that typically grows 60-90′ (less frequently to 150′) tall with a pyramidal to broad conical habit. The short-lived, tulip-like flowers are always worth seeking out in Summer. Greenish yellow in colour, they are not always the easiest to spot against the leaves as they are often held high up in the crown. Tulip trees tend to take 20 to 30 years to blossom, so you will need a little a patience! However, without enough water, space, and light, or if the tree is pruned too much, it may never blossom.
The tulip tree, also known as the tulip poplar, has a few interesting folklore stories associated with it. One popular tale links its distinctive leaf shape to the biblical story of Adam and Eve’s expulsion from the Garden of Eden, where Eve is said to have pulled off the central lobe of the leaf in a fit of pique.
Additionally, the Native Americans used the tree extensively, and it was even known as “canoe wood” because they fashioned large dugout canoes from its trunk.
