The Story
Plant Bio
Harpullia pendula is an evergreen tree native to eastern Australian rainforests, growing to ten metres in urban cultivation with a dense, rounded canopy. The alternate, compound leaves consist of glossy, pale to dark green leaflets, with new growth emerging soft and covered in fine copper-pink or fawn hairs.
Small greenish-yellow flowers borne in long sprays are followed by bright yellow-orange to red two-lobed capsules that split to reveal glossy black seeds. The tree develops a smooth, grey scaly trunk and maintains a non-invasive root system, making it highly suited for street planting.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
590 inches
Width
393 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
9, 10
Water
Moderate
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Long-lived
Native To
Eastern Australia
Toxicity
Non-toxic
Bloom period
Spring – Summer
In flower about 4 months of the year
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with free-draining soil.
- Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and incorporate compost into the backfill.
- Position the tree at the same depth as it was in the container and backfill, firming gently.
- Water thoroughly and apply a thick layer of organic mulch around the root zone, keeping it clear of the trunk.
Pro Tip
Establish a single straight central leader with formative pruning during the first few years; once the main trunk is established, avoid heavy pruning into old wood as regrowth is slow and patchy.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during the first two summers to establish a deep root system.
- Apply a balanced slow-release fertiliser during the active spring growing season.
- Prune young trees early to establish a clear trunk and strong central leader.
Don't
- Do not plant in poorly drained or waterlogged soils.
- Do not prune heavily into old, leafless wood.
- Do not panic if native butterfly larvae feed on the foliage, as they do not cause permanent damage.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Propagate | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Tulipwood questions
What zones can Tulipwood grow in?
Tulipwood is hardy in USDA Zones 9–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
When does Tulipwood bloom?
Tulipwood typically blooms in spring through summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Tulipwood need full sun?
Tulipwood does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Tulipwood drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Tulipwood handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Tulipwood with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.