Tulipwood - Harpullia pendula

Tulipwood - Harpullia pendula

The Tulipwood is a medium-sized tree native to the north and central-east coast of Australia. It typically grows to a manageable 5-10 meters which makes it a popular choice as a street or backyard tree, renowned for its symmetrical crown and vibrant red fruit.

• Size: In its natural habitat, it can reach up to 25 meters, but typically 5-10 meters in cultivation
• Habitat: Native to the north and central-east coast of Australia
• Flowers: Greenish-yellow flowers bloom from November to January
• Fruit: Orange-red fruit ripens from August to October
• Wildlife: Food source for the larval stages of the Cornelian Butterfly
• Timber: Valuable timber used for turnery and cabinet making; fine-grained, tough, heavy, and durable
• Preferred Conditions: Thrives in sunny positions with moist and well-drained soil
• Maintenance: Requires little maintenance once fully established

Detailed Description:

The Tulipwood (Harpullia pendula) is a captivating medium-sized tree native to the north and central-east coast of Australia. Renowned for its symmetrical crown and vibrant fruit, it is a remarkable addition to both natural landscapes and cultivated environments.

In its native rainforest habitat, the Tulipwood can reach majestic heights of up to 25 meters. However, in cultivation, it typically grows to a more manageable 5-10 meters. It is a popular choice as a street or backyard tree due to its size and ornamental features.

The Tulipwood graces its surroundings with greenish-yellow flowers that adorn the tree from November to January. Following the flowering season, the tree bears orange-red fruit, which ripens from August to October. Notably, these fruits serve as a crucial food source for the larval stages of the Cornelian Butterfly, contributing to local biodiversity.

One of the Tulipwood's distinguishing characteristics is its valuable timber. The wood of this tree is highly prized and finds applications in turnery and cabinet making. It boasts a fine grain, toughness, heaviness, and durability, making it an excellent choice for crafting.

This tree thrives in sunny positions with well-drained soil that retains moisture. Once established, it requires minimal maintenance, making it a low-effort addition to your landscape.

Planting Benefits:

• Ornamental Appeal: The Tulipwood's symmetrical crown and colorful fruit add an ornamental touch to any landscape.
• Wildlife Attraction: It provides essential sustenance for the Cornelian Butterfly's larval stages, supporting local biodiversity.
• Valuable Timber: The timber is prized for its fine-grained, tough, heavy, and durable qualities, suitable for turnery and cabinet making.
• Low Maintenance: Once fully established, it demands little maintenance, making it a hassle-free choice for your garden or outdoor space.