Our little tulip poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera) is growing up nicely. In 2022, this individual volunteered on the north edge of the arboretum, down slope from mature tulip poplars. The following year it was extracted and relocated to a more suitable spot.
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| In April 2023, the sapling was photographed against a black umbrella when it was less than 8 inches tall. Given that this species can grow to become one of the largest trees (over 100 feet) in Eastern North America, we have on record some modest beginnings. |
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| Today, it looks healthy and appears to be living up to the expectation of being a 'fast-grower'. Pictured here in June 2025, we see that our tree has grown significantly. Based on photos from last December, it may have nearly doubled in height. The trunk exhibits a slight lean due to the shade cast by a nearby swamp dogwood (Cornus foemina), but our tree has successfully outgrown that competition. Additional staking would be a prudent intervention to correct the current lean while the tree is still supple. In another decade it will be big enough to support numerous bees and moths with its leaves and nectar. |
To see a post on the gorgeous fall colors offered by this specimen, click here.
