A tree, Liriodendron tulipifera, also known in forestry as yellow poplar, belonging to the magnolia family, Magnoliaceae. One of the largest and most valuable hardwoods of eastern North America, it is native from southern New England and New York westward to southern Michigan, and south to Louisiana and northern Florida. In rich, moist soil it may grow 150 ft (45 m) tall and have a diameter of 8–10 ft (2.4–3 m).