Upright Tulip Tree

Liriodendron tulipifera Fastigiata is an upright form of the Tulip tree, perfect for planting where space is at a premium. 

This tree has large, bright green, smooth-lobed leaves that appear in the spring and turn golden yellow in the autumn. The most notable feature of this tree is the curious, large, green-yellow tulip-shaped flowers produced in June and July. Unlike its parent, this variety will produce a floral display when still young; at Barcham, we regularly see flowers produced by medium-sized trees.

Liriodendron tulipifera Fastigiata has a very stiffly upright branching system and, as such, produces a teardrop shape at maturity.

It is similar to the growth pattern of the Upright Hornbeam, Carpinus betulus Fastigiata, which will be very columnar when young, maturing to have a somewhat middle-aged spread and “fat” tear-dropped shape.

Unlike some ornate specimen trees, this variety is wind-resistant and will thrive on most well-fertile soils.

This medium-sized tree is a great choice for specimen planting in parklands and can also be effectively planted as an avenue; its regular, upright shape provides the uniform quality desired for such planting.

Being much smaller than the species, this tree is also an excellent choice for smaller gardens, enabling those with a space challenge to enjoy its unique floral display.

Mature height: 7-12m

Common names

Upright Tulip Tree

Height of tree

7-12m

Soil type

Well drained, Will tolerate most soil types

Shape

Narrow

Foliage Colour

Green

Looks good in

Summer

Location

Garden, Parkland

Genus

Liriodendron