
Light Needs

Mature Height

Mature Spread

Growing Zones
Tulip Poplar is a fast-growing, native shade tree that delivers a towering canopy, tulip-shaped spring flowers, and brilliant golden fall color—perfect for large yards, acreage, parks, and naturalized landscapes. Packed with curb appeal and habitat value, this deciduous tree supports pollinators and songbirds while offering rapid growth and low maintenance.
Tulip Poplar Care
Plant in full sun (6+ hours). Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil but adapts to average garden soils; avoid chronically dry or compacted sites. Water deeply the first 1–2 years (about 1" per week) to establish; afterward, irrigate during prolonged drought. Set the root flare at or slightly above grade; mulch 2–3" over the root zone, keeping mulch a few inches off the trunk.
Prune in late winter to remove dead or crossing wood and maintain a strong central leader. Fertilize lightly in early spring only if growth is weak or soil is poor, using a balanced, slow-release formula. Generally pest- and disease-resistant when properly sited and watered.
Tulip Poplar Spacing
As a specimen shade tree, allow 30–50 feet of clearance from buildings, driveways, and overhead lines. For windbreaks or shelterbelts, space 20–30 feet apart in-row with 25–35 feet between rows. For park-style groupings or naturalized groves, stagger 25–40 feet on center for layered canopy structure, airflow, and maintenance access.
Why Grow Tulip Poplar?
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Rapid growth and a broad, cooling canopy for quick shade
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Showy, tulip-like blossoms in late spring and glowing golden fall color
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Native, wildlife-friendly habitat for pollinators and birds
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Strong central leader and long-term structure for big spaces
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Adapts to a range of soils; low maintenance once established
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Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9; long-lived landscape investment
A stately American native that rockets to shade, dazzles with spring blooms, and lights up autumn gold—Tulip Poplar brings instant presence, wildlife value, and lasting curb appeal to large landscapes.
Please Note: The pictures below are to give a general representation of the different container sizes. The actual size/ages of plants are estimates and will vary based on type of plant, time of year, last pruning & many other factors.

Also Known As:
Quart
Plant Age:
~ 6 months - 1 year
Plant Size:
~ 4"-8"
Pot Size:
~ 4.75"H x 4.5"W
Volume:
1.50 quarts

Also Known As:
2.5 Quart Pot
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 8"-12"
Pot Size:
~ 6.5"H x 6.5"W
Volume:
2.20-2.30 quarts

Also Known As:
#1 Container
1 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1 - 2 years old
Plant Size:
~ 10"-14"
Pot Size:
~ 7"H x 7.75"W
Volume:
2.26-3.73 quarts

Also Known As:
#2 Container
2 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 1.5 - 3 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-18"
Pot Size:
~ 9.5"H x 9.5"W
Volume:
1.19-1.76 gallons

Also Known As:
#3 Container
3 Gallon
Plant Age:
~ 2 - 4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 12"-30"
Pot Size:
~9.5"H x 11"W
Volume:
2.32-2.76 gallons

Also Known As:
#5 Container
5 Gallon
Plant Age:
~3-4 years old
Plant Size:
~ 20" - 60"
Pot Size:
~11" H x 10 1/2” W
Volume:
3.5 - 4 gallons

We stand behind our plants with industry-leading guarantees to give you peace of mind.
We want your plants to arrive in great condition! If you notice any issues upon delivery, contact us within 3 days.
Starting January 1, 2025 all bushes, perennials & trees purchased come with an extended 1-year warranty for added confidence. If your plant dies due to a health issue within a year, we’ll make it right.
Plants that are currently in stock typically ship within 2-7 business days after your order is placed.
Plant Addicts ships to the lower 48 states within the U.S. Unfortunately, we do not currently ship to Alaska, Hawaii, or internationally.
This plant cannot be shipped to the following states: AZ, CA, ID, WA, OR, AK, HI. These restrictions apply only to this specific plant due to agricultural regulations or other limitations. Other plants may still be available for shipping to these states.
If you have any questions about shipping restrictions, feel free to reach out to our team!