THE BEAUTY OF THE TULIP TREE

Tulip bulbs just do not thrive in my garden.  However, I can enjoy similar blooms in spring  thanks to  the Liriodendron trees, which are actually related to magnolias. Their cup shaped flowers have led to the common name of Tulip Tree.

I planted two of these trees about 20 years ago. The variegated one I’m pictured digging a hole for replaced a giant pine tree, which gave unwanted shade to the garden. You can see the stacks of pine wood on the left. One thing to remember is that these trees don’t like dry soil. I guess that’s why they do so well in the  rainy Blue Mountains, where I live.

Only mature trees produce flowers, but they are worth waiting for.

Here is my 2004 tree, photographed in a mountain mist. It’s about 7 metres tall now.

In spring the Satin Bowerbirds sit snacking on the new leaves. I used to think they would strip the tree, but remarkably  they never cause any discernable damage. And as the weeks go by the beautiful  buds swell on the ends on the upper branches. The wattle birds start to visit. Note the variegated leaves.

Its not until November that the flowers are in full bloom. Worth waiting for though.

The canopy provides great shade in mid summer, for smaller plants……. and birds.

It is in autumn that the tulip trees’ foliage really puts on a show. The non variegated one is more spectacular I think. It has huge leaves, which turn as golden as butter.

Even the back of the leaf is lovely, especially when  covered in diamonds of dew .

The large leaves transform paths and form bright carpets.

Eventually there is a strong wind and the remaining leaves disappear in a flurry. Winter is nigh.

I just love these trees. They provide shade, shelter, nectar and seeds for the birds, plus untold pleasure to me.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON GROWING THE TREES, CLICK HERE.

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