Tulip Tree Vs. Magnolia
The magnolia and tulip tree both belong to the Magnolia family. Both are hardwoods that bloom in spring. Both prefer moist, rich soil and partial shade. There are, however, several distinct differences between the two.
Geography
The southern magnolia, Magnolia grandiflora, is native to the southeastern region of North America. A relation, sweetbay magnolia, is hardy as far north as New York and New Jersey, though most magnolias grow in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Plant Hardiness Zones 6 to 9. The tulip tree, or Liriodendron tulipifera, was brought to Virginia by European settlers. It is hardy from Quebec to Texas and Florida.
Features
Magnolia grandiflora grows 20 to 50 feet tall while its cousin, Liriodendron tulipifera, can grow up to 150 feet in height. Southern magnolias are evergreen trees and tulip trees are deciduous – they drop their leaves each fall. The African tulip tree reaches 80 feet in height but grows only in Zones 10 and 11.
Flowers
Both trees flower during spring in the southern climates and summer in the northern parts of their ranges. Magnolia grandiflora grows large white flowers; some species can have pink highlights. The tulip tree’s flowers, yellow with bright orange bands, grow in the upper part of the tree’s crown.
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Writer Bio
An avid perennial gardener and old house owner, Laura Reynolds has had careers in teaching and juvenile justice. A retired municipal judgem Reynolds holds a degree in communications from Northern Illinois University. Her six children and stepchildren served as subjects of editorials during her tenure as a local newspaper editor.
