Liriodendron chinense aka Chinese Tulip Tree

Liriodendron chinense is known as the Chinese tulip tree. It belongs to the magnolia family, Magnoliaceae. Its native range spans central and southern China to northern Vietnam. This deciduous tree grows fast and forms a dense crown. Its upright shape suits large lawns and open grounds. Garden trees reach 50–70 feet (15.2–21.3 metres) tall. Their spread reaches 30–40 feet (9.1–12.2 metres). Other sources report heights near 79–82 feet (24–25 metres).

The leaves grow alternately along the stems and have deep lobes. Each leaf is simple, rather than split into leaflets. The broad end lobe has a cut-off tip. New leaves can show orange or brown tones in spring. Mature leaves are green and reach about six inches long. They turn yellow in fall, sometimes with brown tones. The tree loses its leaves for winter. Its shallow roots can limit planting beneath the crown.

Mature trees bear flowers shaped like small tulip cups. Bloom runs from May to June, though RHS describes summer flowering. The flowers have green outer surfaces and yellow inside or near the base. They can reach about one and a half inches long. Leaves may hide them from view on large trees. The fruits form long, scaly clusters shaped like cones. These change from green to brown as they ripen. Each cluster holds many winged seeds and breaks apart when ripe.

Grow this tree in sun for its preferred light conditions. It also tolerates a site with some shade. Moist, rich loam with good drainage suits it best. Sources also list clay and sandy soils as suitable. Use acid or neutral soil without lime. Missouri Botanical Garden gives USDA zones 6–9. Cold may cause problems in the northern part of zone 6. Oregon State gives zone 7 as its hardiness limit. RHS rates it H6 under UK conditions.

This tree provides shade, fall color, and a large specimen form. It attracts butterflies and hosts viceroy caterpillars. Sources discourage its use as a street tree. Its weak wood can break in wind, snow, or ice. Care needs are low, and serious pest problems are uncommon. Aphids, leaf miners, scale, mealybugs, and borers may occur. Aphid honeydew can support sooty mold on leaves. Possible diseases include honey fungus, verticillium wilt, powdery mildew, and canker.