The Tulip Tree is the tallest native hardwood in eastern North America, reaching heights of 200 feet in ideal conditions. Its large, distinctively notched leaves and tulip-shaped orange-and-green flowers make it unmistakable. It produces abundant nectar-rich flowers that are heavily visited by bees, and its seeds are eaten by cardinals, goldfinches, and small mammals.
Best time to see a Tulip Tree
The best time to see a Tulip Tree is April–July, when about 62% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 81,672 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Tulip Tree? What plant is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
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