Tulip Tree vs Sessile Oak - TreeTime.ca

Tulip Tree vs Sessile Oak

Quercus petraea

Liriodendron tulipifera

Sessile Oak
Tulip Tree

Sessile Oak is a large, long-lived deciduous tree with a wide, rounded crown. It is an important host plant for many pollinators, especially in its native range. Its acorns serve as a valuable food source for birds and small mammals, providing strong ecological value. It differs from many oaks as the leaves grow on longer stalks, whereas the acorns are stalkless. It can live for hundreds of years, with some surviving over 1,000 years in ideal conditions. As it matures, the tree develops a rugged, gnarled structure that provides heavy shade and a distinctive appearance.

More drought-tolerant than other oaks and does not do well in waterlogged or compacted soils.
Native to Europe and is the national tree of Ireland.

Note: Most Oak species can be considered toxic for many animals.

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

Sessile Oak Quick Facts

Tulip Tree Quick Facts

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Zone: 4a
Zone: 4a
Height: 24 m (80 ft)
Height: 24 m (80 ft)
Spread: 14 m (45 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: normal, wet
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: fast
Life span: long
Life span: long
Growth form: rounded to spreading
Growth form: upright, oval to pyramidal
Spreading: seeds - low
Spreading: seeds - low
Suckering: none

Toxicity: young leaves and acorns toxic to humans and animals when injested

Foliage: 4-lobed somewhat spade-shaped
Fall colour: golden yellow
Fall colour: golden yellow
Flowers: greenish yellow, tulip-shaped
Bloom time: spring to early summer
Nuts: acorns
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Native to: ON
Other Names: cornish oak, durmast oak, irish oak, welsh oak
Other Names: canoewood, tulip poplar, tulip-poplar, tuliptree, yellow poplar