Harpullia pendulaTulipwood

The Harpullia pendula, commonly known as Tulipwood, is a graceful Australian native tree prized for its attractive glossy green foliage and seasonal clusters of orange-yellow fruit capsules. These capsules open to reveal striking black seeds, adding ornamental interest and attracting birds. Growing up to 8–15 meters tall with a spreading canopy, this evergreen tree is ideal for providing shade, screening, or as a feature tree in subtropical and urban landscapes.

Low-maintenance and adaptable, Tulipwood is a great choice for home gardens, streetscapes, and parks.

Specifications

• Height8–15 meters
• Width4–6 meters
• Native toAustralia (eastern rainforests)
• FoliageGlossy green, compound leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers well-drained, fertile soils; tolerates sandy, loamy, and clay types
• LightFull sun to partial shade
• WaterLow to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• ClimateThrives in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions

Additional Features

• FlowersSmall, inconspicuous greenish-yellow blooms in spring
• FruitBright orange-yellow capsules with black seeds; attracts birds
• FormUpright growth with a dense, rounded canopy
• UsesIdeal for shade, street planting, screening, or as a feature tree
• SpacingPlant 4–6 meters apart for screens or individual displays
• Low MaintenanceRequires minimal pruning; remove deadwood as needed
• Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free and hardy
• Wildlife AttractionFruit attracts birds and adds biodiversity to gardens
• Erosion ControlEffective for stabilizing soils in degraded areas
• Seasonal AppealEvergreen foliage provides year-round greenery; fruits add ornamental interest
• VersatilityComplements native, contemporary, and formal garden styles

The Tulipwood is a resilient and elegant tree, perfect for enhancing landscapes with shade, structure, and ecological value.