Lanodendron tulipifera
The Tuliptree is the tallest eastern hardwood. It has a long straight
trunk. The large showy flowers resemble tulips or lilies and are a significant source of nector
for bees. The greenish and yellow orange tulip like flower develops into a dry cone.
The height of the tree can reach 80-120 feet (24-37m) and the diameter of the trunk can
be 2-3 feet . The leaves are usually 3-6 inches long and 4 or sometimes 6 short pointed
paired lobes. The bark is dark gray becoming thick and deeply furrowed.The flowers are
usually 1 1/2-2" long.The fruit is 2-2 1/2 inches long and light brown.The Tuliptree has
been known to live up to 500 years.
The Tuliptree is one of the largest and most valuable trees. It is
found in the regions bounded by southern New England through New York. In some regions it
is known as the White Wood. These trees were burned for fuel and the American Indian used the
Tuliptree for canoes.
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