Tulip Poplar vs Swamp White Oak - TreeTime.ca

Tulip Poplar vs Swamp White Oak

Liriodendron tulipifera

Quercus bicolor

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

Tulip Poplar
Swamp White Oak

Tulip Poplar is the perfect shade tree for wide open spaces. It has a shallow and extensive root system, so ensure you give it space to grow. The attractive and showy, yellow-orange, tulip shaped flowers are where this tree gets its name.

Tulip Poplar is somewhat rare in Canada but highly sought after as it is difficult to grow. Does best in a moist, well-drained soil.

The Swamp White Oak is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to North America. It is commonly found in swamps, lowlands, floodplains, and near streams and lakes. The leaves are two-toned, green on top and silvery-white on the undersides, adding to the visual appeal of this popular shade tree.

In the fall, the Swamp White Oak produces acorns which are an important food source for wildlife. It also provides a habitat for the larvae of many butterfly and moth species, playing an important ecological role. Although its growth is slow in the first few years, once the roots are established, it can achieve faster annual growth.

Tulip Poplar Quick Facts

Swamp White Oak Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 4a
Height: 18 m (60 ft)
Height: 15 m (50 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 15 m (50 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Moisture: normal, wet
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: long
Suckering: low
Suckering: none


Toxicity: mildly toxic to humans, cats, and dogs
Nuts: acorns
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON
Native to: ON, QC
Other Names: bicolor oak