Variegated Tulip Tree
Liriodendron tulipifera 'Aureomarginatum'
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Specifications
| Plant Characteristics | Cold hardy, Fast-growing, Native, Flowering, Fall Color/Interest, Attracts pollinators |
|---|---|
| Hardiness Zone | 4a to 9b |
| Sunlight | Full sun |
| Height | |
| Width | |
| Watering Needs | Moderate |
| Preferred Soil | Loamy |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Blooms In | Spring, Summer |
| Flower Color | Orange, Yellow |
| Fragrant | Yes |
| Native | Yes |
| Suitable Space | Outdoors |
| Botanical Name | |
| Species | |
| Cultivar | |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Does Not Ship To | AK, HI, ID, MT, PR |
Description
The Variegated Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera 'Aureomarginatum') is one of the most striking native shade trees you can plant. Each leaf is edged in gold, creating a luminous two-toned canopy that catches the light from spring through fall. Add in the tulip-shaped, yellow-green flowers with orange bands that appear in late spring, and you've got a tree that earns its Royal Horticultural Society Award of Garden Merit.
Why You'll Love the Variegated Tulip Tree
- Gold-margined foliage delivers a unique two-toned effect all season long
- Fragrant, tulip-shaped blooms appear in May and June with distinctive orange banding
- One of the fastest growing native shade trees, reaching 50 to 70 feet tall
- Brilliant golden-yellow fall color lights up the autumn landscape
- Host plant for the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly
- Moderately deer resistant, so your investment stays intact
Growing Conditions
The Variegated Tulip Tree thrives in zones 4 through 9. Plant it in full sun (six or more hours daily) for the best leaf color and flowering, though it will tolerate part shade. It prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Consistent moisture is important, especially during the first few years of establishment. Once settled in, this tree is remarkably self-sufficient.
Size and Growth Habit
Expect a mature height of 50 to 70 feet with a spread of 30 to 40 feet. Growth rate is fast, so you won't wait long for meaningful shade. The form is upright and stately with a strong central leader, making it an impressive specimen even from a distance. The straight trunk and high branching habit give it a grand, columnar silhouette.
Landscape Uses and Design Ideas
This tree was made for large yards, estates, and parks where it can spread out and show off. Plant it as a focal point in the center of your lawn, or use it along property borders for a dramatic living boundary. It pairs beautifully with other native plants and makes a strong addition to any shade tree planting. For an eye-catching mixed border, combine it with lower-growing natives that attract pollinators.
Planting and Care Tips
Plant your Variegated Tulip Tree in spring or early fall for the smoothest establishment. Dig the hole two to three times wider than the root ball but no deeper, and water thoroughly after planting. Mulch out to the drip line to keep roots cool and moist, but keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
Learn more about growing large shade trees in our guide to fast-growing shade trees, and discover other plants with striking foliage in variegated plants you need in your garden. Browse our full selection of fast-growing trees and flowering trees to find the perfect companion plantings.
Delivery and Shipping
Shipping Rates
Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected
| Under $50 | $9.99 |
| $50 - $99.99 | $14.99 |
| $100 - $149.99 | $16.99 |
| $150 - $198.99 | $24.99 |
| $199+ | FREE |
✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee
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Really had high hopes for the Varegated "Tulip Poplar" from www.Naturehills.com however the tree took 12 days in transit and doesn't have a viable leaf or bud even after a week of ICU. Tree cost $146.96 +/-, for just $50 more you get a 12 foot round lobed Sweet Gum tree locally in 20 gal pot. I don't expect this in mail order however I do expect a company to be responsive online and to promptly respond to emails and to send out a replacement right away. I've been in the nursiry trade my entire life and now retired, I would never sell a tree to a client in this condition. There seems to be a real lack of Naturehills giving any pride or care in what they sell. If they really did I would have expected a replacement to be shipped next day or two day shipping. They have coverage from the shipper of which I took it upon myself to open a case for them *(your welcome, NH receives the refund from carrier not me as they were the shipper) I've looked through emails, no response found to date from Nature Hills. To add insult to an already dissapointing and expensive ordeal, the other tree in the order a "Little Volunteer" Tulip Tree arrived an entire week earlier than this tree *(same order) however the tree had all branches in only one side of the tree. Not a single branch. You could plant this tree up.against a flat wall and it would fit bevause on half side has branches and the other half side DOES NOT!! This store seems to sell 2nds and 3rds when it comes to stock and it shows with the lack of response. Sent pics and everything, 2 poor quality trees and spent Over $300 for the fine privilege. As things stand now, unless they take responsability, just say no to Nature Hills not to be confused with Spring Hills who I'm guessing they hope people associate with them. I'd be embarrassed to put out products like theirs. Please send refund, you've seen the pics!
Tree looks great!
Variegated Tulip Trees do have a way of catching the eye, so it's great to hear yours is off to a good start, Vernon. As it settles in, make sure it gets plenty of sun and consistent moisture through the first season. Thanks for sharing the update.
Great packaging. Hard to find tree. Leaves a little wilted but perking up now that in ground awhile.
Tulip trees can be tricky to source, so it's great to hear you tracked one down and got it in the ground. A little wilting after transit is normal as the roots settle in and start to establish, and it sounds like yours is already bouncing back. The variegated foliage on this one is really something once the tree hits its stride. Thanks for the note on packaging too, Janie.
Angie,
Thank you so very much for the Absolutly wonderfull varigated Tulip Poplar Tree! It looks amazing! very well branched full of leaves, it will be the centerpeice of my front yard!! Id pay top dollar if I knew all mail order trees looked as great as this one. There were a couple bumps along the way, however; you went above and beyond and made things more than right. Thank you Angie and the Nature Hills gang!! Youve gained a customer for life!
Chad, it sounds like your Variegated Tulip Tree arrived in great shape, and hearing that it will anchor your front yard is exactly the kind of outcome we hope for with a tree like this. They develop such a striking presence as they mature, so you have a lot to look forward to. We will pass your kind words along to Angie. Thank you for sticking with us through the bumps, and welcome to the Nature Hills family for life.
