Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera)

 The tulip tree is native to eastern United States where it is the tallest of the broad-leaved trees.  Trees almost 60 m (200 ft) high and diameter of 3 m (12 ft.) have been recorded.  Typically they grow straight and tall which has made them valuable timber over the centuries.  It is popular in cabinet making.  Long before the Ohio River Valley was settled, East Coast shipbuilders sought tulip trees for masts of sailing ships.  Not only were they tall and straight, they stood up well in this water-soaked environment.

 It has yellow-edged tulip shaped leaves.  Its showy flower is also tulip shaped and the fruit is a cone-shaped cluster which produces a winged seed.

 Sometimes it is called the tulip poplar, but it is really a member of the magnolia family.